Quote from: Breakin Away on June 08, 2023, 07:21:01 PM
Quick comment: I did some searching. There are rebuild kits available for ZF10M/HBW100. There are various kits depending on how comprehensive the rebuild needs to be. So it does appear to be an option for you.
Like I said before, if you are experiencing slipping, have a close look at your transmission fluid to make sure it is the right stuff. My transmission was slipping during my first year of ownership, which I couldn't understand since it had just been rebuilt a year ago. I changed the fluid annually with the proper DexronIII fluid, and it gradually got better over a few years. Now, 7 years later, it works perfectly. I don't know what PO had put into the transmission, but in retrospect I suspect it may have been synthetic ATF, which is known to cause slippage. Presumably it took a few refills to fully eliminate any adsorbed traces of it from the interior surfaces. If you are having slipping problems and suspect you have synthetic ATF, I'd suggest a few refills with the correct Dexron fluid, with a few hours of use in between each refill. Much cheaper and easier than a rebuild or replacement.
Quote from: Breakin Away on June 08, 2023, 03:50:13 PM
I'm going to sound like a broken record here, but you've outlined the reasons why you would be much, much, MUCH better off rebuilding your current transmission. The PO of my boat had it rebuilt about a year before I bought it (would have been sometime around 2015), and I am so glad he did. From what I recall of the repair records, it looks like it was removed without having to remove the engine.
I know that the original Hurth transmission has been discontinued, but not sure whether the rebuild parts have been discontinued. Hopefully a good transmission shop would know of alternate parts if needed.
Just a question: You didn't put synthetic ATF into it, did you? If so, and you're having severe slipping, you might have an easier fix available to you.
Thanks for your response. No, I have not used synthetic ATF. You are correct about the availability of rebuild kits for the ZF 10. I have contacted one marine shop and a transmission shop, both are willing to inspect and rebuild, once the transmission has been removed - which hopefully will be on Monday. I am nervous about rebuilding the ZF 10. I have heard many comments that the rebuild kits may not be of the same 'quality'.
In my ongoing investigation of alternate transmissions I came across one called Technodrive TMC 40P. This has been used for years in Beta engines. Before knowing about this transmission, I called the Beta dealer in Sidney and he claimed that he didn't have any transmissions in the lineup that would fit my situation. However, this transmission is reported to be a very simple change out with minimum modifications. I have specs for both the Technodrive and the ZF 10 and the main difference is about 4-5 mm in transmission length, (the Technodrive being longer.) My neighbor replaced his ZF 5 with the same Technodrive transmission in his 25 HP Catalina 30 a few years ago and he claims it is a smooth and robust replacement.
I am currently searching for this particular transmission. I will contact the Beta dealer again on Monday to see if he has one available. If he doesn't, I may have to purchase it state side, if it appears to be as good as the claims. If anyone has heard reports on these transmission, I would appreciate any feedback.
Thanks again Breaking Away for your comments.