Operating

Instructions

ZF-Ecomat
HP 500
HP 590
HP 600
ZF-Ecomat 2 / ZF-Ecomat 2 plus
HP 502
HP 592
HP 602
HP 502C HP 592C HP 602C
for city and intercity buses and
coaches
4139 758 103

Subject to alterations in design

Copyright by ZF
This documentation is protected by copyright. Any reproduction or dissemination in whatever form which does not
comply fully with the intended purpose of this documentation is prohibited without the consent of ZF Friedrichshafen AG.

Printed in Germany
ZF Friedrichshafen AG, MC-C / 2004-09

Edition: 2004-09

Preface
NOTE
All details in these Operating Instructions refer to the
basic version of the ZF-Ecomat transmission. Due to the
large number of installation options, no precise information can be provided for any specific vehicle. If there are
any differences in operation between the instructions in
this brochure and the Operating Instructions specific to an
individual vehicle manufacturer, the vehicle-specific
instructions are the ones to follow.

Before the vehicle first enters service, please note the

following points:
Read the Operating Instructions carefully and follow the
safety instructions.
To ensure that the transmission achieves the required
level of operational safety and reliability, always pay
careful attention to the maintenance instructions.
The ZF After-Sales Service specialists are available to
assist you in carrying out maintenance work at the transmission or to help if any other problems arise. Their
addresses are listed in the "ZF Company Directory" (order
number 0000 762 703) or on the Internet under
www.zf.com/ servicenetz.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

Motoring pleasure with the ZF-Ecomat is brought to you

by

ZF Friedrichshafen AG
Commercial Vehicle and Special Driveline Technology
D-88038 Friedrichshafen
Tel.: +49 (0)7541 77-0
Fax: +49 (0)7541 77-90 80 00
Internet: www.zf.com

Safety Instructions
The following safety instructions appear in this manual:

NOTE
Refers to special processes, methods, information, etc.
CAUTION
This is used when incorrect, unprofessional working
practices could damage the product.

DANGER !
This is used when lack of care could lead to
personal injury or material damage.

THREATS TO THE ENVIRONMENT !

Lubricants and cleaning agents must not be allowed to
enter the soil, ground water, or sewage system.
Ask your local environment agency for safety
information on the relevant products and adhere
to their requirements.
Collect used oil in a suitably large container.
Dispose of used oil, dirty filters, lubricants, and
cleaning agents in accordance with environmental
protection guidelines.
When working with lubricants and cleaning agents
always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

NOTE on cleaning the vehicle / transmission

CAUTION
When cleaning, always ensure that the steam cleaner or
high-pressure cleaner does not make direct contact with
the screw cap of the dipstick. Any water ingress through
the breather can damage the transmission!

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

Contents
1

Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4

Structure of Basic ZF-Ecomat Transmission . . . . . . . 7

System Solution for ZF-Ecomat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
System Solution for ZF-Ecomat 2/
ZF-Ecomat 2 plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Auxiliary Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

2.1
2.1.1
2.1.2
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.5.1
2.5.2
2.5.4
2.6
2.7
2.7.1
2.7.2

Speed Range Selector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Digital Speed Range Selector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
CAN Speed Range Selector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Starting Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Engaging Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Setting Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Speed Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Driving Downhill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Change in Direction of Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Retarder Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Stopping, Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Towing a Vehicle with Operational Transm. . . . . . . . 22
Towing a Vehicle with Suspected Transmission
Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Temperature Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Limit Values for Oil Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

2.8
2.9

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

2.9.1 Transmission Oil Temperature Upstream of Oil Cooler 23

2.9.2 Oil Temperature in Transmission Sump . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.9.3 Action When Permitted Oil Temperature Limit is
exceeded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.10 Status Monitoring / Warning Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.11 Transmission Response to a Malfunction . . . . . . . . . 25
2.11.1 Limp-Home Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
2.12 Auxiliary Control Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.12.1 Operating Instructions for the Auxiliary Control Unit 26

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

3.1
3.2
3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3

Oil Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Oil Quantities in the ZF-Ecomat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Oil Level Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Checking at Operating Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Reference Value Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Checking With Separate Heat Exchanger
Mounted Above Centerline of Transmission . . . . . . . 32
Option for Heating Up the Transmission Oil . . . . . . . 32
Oil Change Intervals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Draining the Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Filling With Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Draining / Filling Oil on ZF Angle Drive . . . . . . . . . . 35
Checking the Load Sensor Setting (Ecomat) . . . . . . 36
Trouble shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9

Description
1

Description

The hydrodynamic retarder is installed between the torque converter and the planetary transmission. This means
that the level of retarder braking force on the output shaft
is gear-dependent. As a consequence, full braking action is
available, even at the lower end of the speed range. The
braking torque can be controlled across an infinitely
variable range or can be sub-divided into several steps.

The Ecomat range of transmissions comprises a hydrodynamic torque converter (Fttinger t/c) with lock-up clutch,
a hydrodynamic retarder, and a downstream, multi-ratio
planetary transmission.
The torque converter is a starting unit which operates
without mechanical wear and which adapts its setting
across an infinitely variable range to suit prevailing conditions (delivering the required level of input torque).

Braking action while driving downhill or in city traffic can

be delivered by the retarder without mechanical wear,
thereby extending the life of the service brakes.
ZF offers a range of powerful PTOs for the entire range of
Ecomat applications. These PTOs are engine-dependent
and, depending on their version are either permanently
driven or disengagable.

The gears in the planetary transmission are engaged

automatically without any interruption in traction. The
signals for gear changes are supplied by an ECU (electronic shift control unit). Depending on various parameters
obtained from vehicle and transmission, this ECU engages
the appropriate multi-disc clutches and brakes via the
electro-hydraulic transmission control unit.
A lock-up clutch installed in the torque converter establishes a direct mechanical connection between engine and
planetary transmission after the starting phase. This lockup process eliminates the power losses traditionally associated with torque converter transmission.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

Description
1.1 Structure of Basic ZF-Ecomat Transmission

8
011 561

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

Key to drawing
1 Input
2 Torque converter lock-up clutch
3 Torque converter
4 Hydrodynamic retarder
5 Rotating multi-disc clutches
6 Fixed-position multi-disc brakes
7 Output
8 Oil cooler

Description
NOTE
This system diagram illustrates one of the possible system solutions for the ZF-Ecomat with the ECU 18 electronic
shift control unit and all related components.
3
2
1
Key to drawing
1 Vehicle circuit interface
2 Temperature display unit
3 Speed range selector (digital speed
range selector)
BN 1
4 Type plate
BN 2
16
17
5 ECU 18 electronic shift control unit
6 Plug connection for
17 19
18
19
7
18
20
MOBiDIG 2000 / ZF-TestmanPro
7 From air supply for auxiliary
consumers
24
8 Coolant connections
9 Solenoid valve for retarder accumulator
10 Retarder accumulator
21
11 Solenoid valve for retarder activation
22
12 Temperature sensor
13 Pressure relief valve (1.2 bar)
14 Solenoid valve for retarder torque
15
16
7
reduction
15 Pressure switch (retarder input signal
15
for ECU 18)
16 Footplate brake valve with modulator valve for
activating the service brake
17 Retarder hand lever
18 Kickdown switch
19 Accelerator pedal
20 Linkage for fuel injection pump
21 Load sensor for recording engine load status
22 Compressed air line for retarder activation (optional
23 Changeover valve
15 and/or 16). Pressure line for modulated pressure
24 Brake pedal for service brake
(0 to 3 bar)
activation

4
5
6

20
21
44

23

14

10

08

13 12 11

00

10

44

97

88
023807
023807

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

Description
1.2 System Solution for the ZF-Ecomat

The speed range selector (3) can be used to pre-select the

speed range.
The pushbutton activated then lights up (continuous
light).

HP 500, HP 590, HP 600 range with ECU 18

for city & intercity buses and coaches.
The electrical wiring from the Ecomat system to the ECU
shift control unit is routed via the vehicle circuit interface
(1).

Using the kickdown switch (18), the shift points can be

relocated to a higher speed range which means that the
transmission remains in each gear for more extended
periods or that downshifts occur sooner.

The ECU18 (5) electronic automatic shift system is used to

control and monitor transmission operation. The ECU
records input parameters from vehicle and transmission
(speed range, engine load, speeds etc.) and converts them
into signals to activate the hydraulic transmission unit.

To activate the retarder, refer to vehicle Operating

Instructions.
Temperature sensors are installed to monitor the oil temperature. The temperature is displayed by means of an
analog display (2) or warning lamp.
Whenever defined temperature limits are exceeded,
retarder torque is reduced continuously.

The driver can intervene directly in the Ecomat control

unit using the
speed range selector (pushbutton switch) (3)
kickdown (18)
accelerator pedal (19)
brake pedal (24)
retarder activation switch (16)

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

Engine load information is transmitted from the electronic engine control unit to the ECU18 (5).

Bremse
Gaspedal
Motor
Anzeige-Instrumente
.........
.......

Description
NOTE
The system diagram illustrates one of the possible system solutions for the Ecomat 2 /
Ecomat 2 plus with ECU 46 C/ECU 47 C and/or ECU 146/ECU 147 respectively with
all required components.
3
NR
3D
1 2

4
24

16

CAN-Bus
15 17

18
19

20

25
4
Key to drawing
1 Vehicle circuit
3 Speed range selector (digital speed range
selector with option of CAN speed range
selector)
4 Type plate
5 ECU (electronic shift control unit)
ECU46C/ECU47C and/or ECU146/ECU147
6 Plug connection MoBiDIG 200/
TestmanPro
8 Coolant connections
9 Solenoid valve for retarder accumulator
10 Proportional solenoid valve for retarder
activation
11 Temperature sensor
12 Retarder accumulator
4139 758 103 - 2004-09

26
15 Footplate brake valve for activation of
service brake and infinitely variable
retarder activation via CAN
16 Retarder hand lever, electrical
17 Kick-down switch
18 Accelerator pedal
19 Linkage to fuel injection pump
20 Load sensor (ZF-Ecomat-2 application
without CAN)
24 Retarder switch ON/OFF
25 Pressure switch for NBS (Bus Stop
Neutral)
26 Impulse sensor, speedometer

10

11

10
12

021649

Description
1.3 System Solution for ZF-Ecomat 2/ZF-Ecomat 2
plus

Using the kickdown switch (17) the shift points can be

relocated to a higher speed range, i.e. the transmission
then spends longer in each ratio before upshifts and that
downshifts occur sooner.

HP 502, HP 592, HP 602 range and/or ECU 502 C and

HP 592 C, HP 602 C with ECU46C / ECU47C and
ECU 146 / ECU 147 respectively, for city & intercity
buses and coaches (C=CAN-capable)

Activation of the retarder: Refer to vehicle Operating

Instructions.

The electrical wiring from the Ecomat system is routed to

the ECU and to the CAN bus in the vehicle via the vehicle
circuit interface (1).

Temperature sensors are installed to monitor the oil temperature. This information is transmitted via CAN bus,
digital output on the ECU or via direct wiring and is displayed by means of a display panel, analog display or
warning lamp. Whenever defined temperature limits are
exceeded, retarder torque is reduced continuously.

The (electronic automatic shift system) ECU helps to control and monitor operation of the transmission. The ECU
records input parameters from vehicle and transmission
(speed range, engine load, speeds etc.) and processes these
into signals to activate the hydraulic transmission control
unit.

Engine load information is transmitted from the electronic engine control unit to the ECU by means of CAN or
load sensor (20) or PWM signal.
In conjunction with a proportional solenoid in the electro-hydraulic control unit, pressures for activating the
clutch elements are modulated in accordance with engine load.

The driver can intervene directly in the Ecomat control

unit using the
speed range selector (pushbutton switch) (3)
kickdown (pushbutton switch) (17)
accelerator pedal (18)
brake pedal (15)
retarder activation switch (24/16)

Special feature of the Ecomat 2 plus:

This range of transmissions has been designed to contend with higher temperatures by means of a choice of
modified sub-assemblies built with adapted materials,
refer to Chapter 2.9.

The speed range selector (3) can be used to pre-select the

speed range. The pushbutton activated then lights up
(continuous light).
4139 758 103 - 2004-09

11

Description
1.4 Auxiliary Transmission
Depending on vehicle version and application, the ZF-Ecomat transmission can be equipped with an 80 angle drive or with an ST
10000 angle drive.
!

"

Key to drawing:
1 Basic transmission
2 Coaxial output
3 80 angle drive without LHD axial offset or 80 angle drive with RHD axial offset RHD
4 ST 10000 angle drive
4139 758 103 - 2004-09

12

019994

Operation
2

Operation

2.1.1 Digital Speed Range Selector

2.1

Digital and/or CAN speed Range Selector

3, 5, or 6 pushbuttons installed horizontally or vertically

R
= Reverse
N
= Neutral
D
= Automatic forward driving range (Drive)
1, 2, 3 = limited forwards driving ranges

Example

NOTE
The respective button pushed will then lights up (continuous light).
The respective button pushed flashes if it is not accepted by the transmission control unit.

005624

The vehicle is either equipped with a digital or a CAN

speed range selector switch.
NOTE
Distinguishing features between CAN and digital speed
range selector switches:
Convex keys
Neutral button does not lock
ZF-Logo located laterally on Neutral button

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

13

Operation
2.1.2 CAN Speed Range Selector

Exceptions:
If the transmission control unit is not providing the
information required for lighting purposes, the lamps
only light up in search mode. Nevertheless, the vehicle
can still be driven in this status.

2.1.2.1 Lighting of the CAN Speed Range Selector

Button lighting colors:
Neutral button:
1,2,3, D and R:

Amber
Yellow

All buttons light up for approx. 1.2 s:

Lighting test at system startup

The lighting is also deactivated if the pushbutton position can no longer be correctly established as a result of
a hardware defect and the buttons only light up with
search lighting.

All buttons flash:

Serious internal fault in pushbutton
Malfunction in CAN communication. Once this defect
has been remedied, the lamp stops flashing.

NOTE
The lighting levels for search and function lighting can, if
required, be set independently of one another. These
levels are corrected in accordance with battery voltage.

All lamps light up dimly:

Search lighting: To make it easier to find the buttons in
the dark.

2.1.2.2 Pushbutton Settings

NOTE
If several buttons are selected at the same time, the smallest gear inhibit button selected is chosen.

Individual buttons light up brightly:

Function lighting: Identifies the active, pressed
pushbutton.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

E.g.: If buttons 1, 2, 3 and D are selected at the same time,

button 1 is activated.

14

Operation
2.2

Starting Engine

Transmission with additional "gear release" function

(additional installation by vehicle manufacturer, recommended by ZF)
Speed range selector in Neutral position
Accelerator pedal at idle setting and neng < 900 rpm
Select desired speed range and apply brake. System will
only select the desired gear while the brake is being
applied.

Engine can only be started if:

Vehicle is stationary (brake applied)
Speed range selector is in Neutral position ("N")
NOTE
Starter inhibit: If the speed range selector is not in Neutral position, the engine cannot be started.

Operator errors when engaging gear

Accelerator pedal actuated or neng > 900 rpm
If "gear release" is installed, but brake not applied
Direction of travel "R" selected at a vehicle speed of
> approx. 3 km/h
After selecting the desired speed range, the system does
not engage a gear.

CAUTION
Jump-starting only possible on battery, never on starting
motor!
Do not switch ignition OFF / ON while vehicle is in
motion!

2.3

Transmission with auxiliary function "2nd Reverse gear

button"
To reverse the vehicle, press the R button on the speed
range selector and also the R button on the dashboard.

Engaging Gear

Standard:
Speed range selector in Neutral position
Accelerator pedal at idle setting and neng < 900 rpm
Select desired speed range and/or direction of travel.
CAUTION
Never actuate speed range selector and throttle at the
same time!
4139 758 103 - 2004-09

15

Operation
2.4 Setting Off
After selecting the appropriate speed range, wait for
approx. 1 to 2 seconds, release brake (if applied) and
accelerate.

DANGER !
On steep uphill gradients, always accelerate as soon
as you release the brake! RISK OF ACCIDENT from
vehicle rolling backwards!

CAUTION
Do not set off immediately at temperatures below -15 C.
Instead, allow engine to warm up for approx. 5 minutes.
Speed range selector in Neutral position.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

16

Operation
2.5

Speed Ranges

2.5.1 Driving Downhill

Please refer to the vehicle's Operating Instructions for

precise information about the gears engaged in each of the
speed ranges.

When driving down steep gradients, depending on requirements, you should select setting 1, 2, or 3 on the speed
range selector. This restricts upshifts.

A defined range of gears / ratios is assigned to each speed

range. Shifts are only executed at shift points defined by
the electronic shift control unit.

Manual intervention in the automatic shift sequence

(shifting right through the speed ranges) is not advisable.

DANGER !
If the transmission is shifted into "N" while the vehicle
is in motion, the power flow between engine and output is interrupted. This prevents the engine brake and
retarder from being able to operate.
Risk of accident! - Apply brake!
For safety reasons, when faults occur in the electronic
shift control unit or whenever there is a power failure,
the transmission automatically selects "N".

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

DANGER !
In extreme cases, to protect the engine, the upshift
inhibit is disabled.
In such cases, the transmission is able to change up
into top gear, regardless of which speed range is
selected.
RISK OF ACCIDENT!
Keep a close eye on the tachometer!

2.5.2 Change in Direction of Travel

Before changing from Forward to Reverse or vice versa:
Vehicle stationary
Accelerator pedal at idle setting and neng < 900 rpm
Speed range selector in Neutral position, actuate brake
pedal if necessary
Move speed range selector to D, 1, 2, 3, or R

17

Operation
2.5.3 Kick-Down
To utilize max. engine power, higher shift points can be
called up using the kick-down switch (see illustration) or
the CAN system (to accelerate or to use the accelerator
pedal on uphill gradients).

Accelerator pedal
Full load (pressure
point)

Depress accelerator pedal right through full throttle

pressure point (kick-down position).

Kick-down

Kick-down switch
023629

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

18

Operation

Ac
ce
ler
ato
rp
ed
al

2.5.4 Retarder Operation

The retarder is a ratio-dependent hydrodynamic brake
which operates without mechanical wear. The retarder
should be employed every time the brakes are applied.
This extends the life of the service brake. The retarder can
be activated manually and/or using the foot controls.

ch
rei
Be
r
de
tar
Re

rder
Reta
+
h
ereic
ms-B
e
r
b
iebs
Betr

Conditions for retarder operation

(retarder engaged / actuated)
Accelerator pedal in idle speed setting
A forward gear must be engaged
013186

Vehicle speed > approx. 3 km/h

If these conditions are met, the system prevents upshifts
(upshift inhibit).

6
5

CAUTION
If the accelerator pedal is actuated, the retarder
disengages.
The upshift inhibit is cancelled.

4
3
2
1
0
023630

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

19

Operation
The retarder must be switched off:
On icy roads
Whenever the oil temperature rises above 150 C
The max. permitted oil temperature during retarder
operation is 150 C (max. 5 mins.).
Temperature display or temperature warning:
Refer to chapter 2.8 or vehicle manufacturer's Operating
Instructions!
Retarder activation using foot pedal, de-activation using
toggle switch on dashboard
Switch off hand lever whenever the brake has been
applied!

DANGER !
Ecomat 2 / Ecomat 2 plus:
The retarder is automatically governed back by means
of a specified transmission oil temperature characteristics curve.
Risk of accident as a result of reduced braking
capability!

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

20

Operation
2.6 Stopping, Parking

Transmission with special "Bus Stop Neutral" (NBS)

feature

NOTE
Only use parking brake when vehicle is stationary.

The transmission automatically selects Neutral when the

following conditions are in place simultaneously:
Vehicle stationary

Stopping

Brake applied

The vehicle can be stopped at any time, regardless of the

setting of the speed range selector. The electronic shift
control unit then engages the appropriate gear for setting
off.

Accelerator pedal in idle speed setting

The speed range selector remains in its most recently
selected setting.
As soon as any one of the above three conditions ceases to
apply, the transmission automatically engages 1st gear.

With short stops:

Speed range can remain selected
Apply brake

Parking

At extended stops:

Speed range selector in Neutral position

Speed range selector in Neutral position

Apply parking brake

Apply brake

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

21

DANGER !
Before leaving the vehicle, always apply the parking
brake. When the engine is switched off, there is no direct
connection between engine and axle. The vehicle can
therefore start to roll!

Operation
2.7

Towing

2.7.2 Towing a Vehicle With Suspected Transmission

Damage

2.7.1 Towing a Vehicle with Operational Transmission

CAUTION
If transmission damage is suspected, flange on universal
shaft between transmission and drive axle needs to be
disconnected.

Speed range selector in Neutral position

Max. towing time: 2 hours
Max. towing speed:
City and intercity buses:
Coaches:

Exception: In a dangerous situation, towing is permitted

until vehicle leaves the area of immediate danger (e.g.
crossroads, tunnel etc.) even without disconnecting the
driveline.

25 km/h
35 km/h

NOTE
At an ambient temperature of less than -15 C the towing
speed is 5 km/h.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

22

Operation
2.8

Temperature Monitoring

2.9.2 Oil Temperature in Transmission Sump

The transmission temperature monitoring function is performed by the electronic automatic shift system (Ecomat 2
and Ecomat 2 plus) or via a temperature indicator (Ecomat).
The actuation point of temperature indicator warning contact is 145 C.

2.9

NOTE
The following sump temperatures must not be exceeded
(not even at high ambient temperatures):

Transmission oil sump temperatures

Limit Values for Oil Temperature

2.9.1 Transmission Oil Temperature Upstream of Oil

Cooler

Operating
temperature
or continuous
temperature

During torque converter operation:

In exceptional cases, short periods of operation (max. 5
mins. within a 1 hour period) at 150 C are permissible.

Exception:
Max. 5 Min.
within any
1 hour period

During torque converter operation:

The temperature limit for continuous operation is
110 C.
In exceptional cases, short periods of operation (max. 5
mins. within a 1 hour period) at 130 C are permissible.
During normal driving:
The permitted temperature range is between 90 - 100 C.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

23

Ecomat

Ecomat 2

Ecomat 2 plus

max.
80 - 90 C

max.
100 C

max.
105 C

105 C

105 C

115 C

Operation
2.9.3 Action When Permitted Oil Temperature Limit is
Exceeded

2.10 Status Monitoring / Warning Lamps

The diagnosis system on the electronic automatic shift
system (the ECU) monitors the transmission status every
time the vehicle circuit is switched on and continuously
while the vehicle is in motion.

Driving at part throttle in low driving range

Switch off retarder
If this does NOT cause the oil temperature to drop:

Warning lamps
Faults are displayed by warning lamps lighting up (red or
yellow) and by warning messages which appear on the
driver's display panel (refer to the vehicle manufacturer's
Operating Instructions).

Stop the vehicle

Speed range selector in Neutral position
Run engine at raised idle speed
NOTE
If the temperature does not drop back into its permitted
range within a few minutes, the possible causes are:

If a selected gear or speed range is not accepted by the

ECU, the button pressed on the speed range selector starts
to flash.

Oil level too low or too high

Coolant circuit defective
Transmission damage
Inform ZF Service Center without delay!

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

24

Operation
2.11 Transmission Response to a Malfunction

2.11.1 Limp-Home Mode

To protect the transmission in the event of a malfunction,

the following responses are provided:

The ECU is set up with specific time and pressure settings

for pressure control in limp-home mode. Please also note
that:

Shift into Neutral:

In the event of major malfunctions in the power supply to
the transmission, e.g. short circuit

The retarder function is not available

The "Bus Stop Neutral" (NBS) function is not available
The engine brake cannot be activated

Shift into Limp-Home Mode:

If there is an interruption to CAN communication or a loss
of speed information

"Torque converter lock-up clutch" (WK) is open

Engine torque is limited to protect the transmission (no
engine management)

DANGER !
In the event of a malfunction occurring in the transmission system:
There is an extremely high risk of transmission
damage
Restricted system monitoring
RISK OF ACCIDENT!

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

25

Operation
2.12 Auxiliary Control Unit

2.12.1 Operating Instructions for the Auxiliary Control

Unit

This auxiliary control unit was developed to help with

moving the vehicle during the production process and to
act as a limp-home facility in the event of ECU failure.

Apply parking brake to prevent vehicle from rolling

accidentally.
Speed range selector in Neutral position ("N")

Auxiliary control unit HST 18 (Ecomat)

The HST 18 auxiliary control unit is fitted to the 55-pin
connector instead of the ECU18 unit (i.e. the normal
ECU). This allows the driver to select one forward and
one reverse gear. No gear changes are possible while the
vehicle is in motion.

Switch off engine and ignition.

Remove connector from ECU.

Attach connector to HST 18 auxiliary control unit and

secure.

Auxiliary control unit HST 46 (Ecomat 2/ Ecomat 2 plus)

The HST 46 auxiliary control unit is fitted to the 68-pin
connector instead of the ECU 46 C / ECU 47 C and/or
ECU 146 / ECU 147 units (i.e. the normal ECUs). This
allows the driver to select one forwards and one reverse
gear. No gear changes are possible while the vehicle is in
motion.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

Start engine.
Engage gear on speed range selector:

26

Shift setting "N"

= Neutral

Shift setting "D"

= Forward (gear is engaged, and

no upshifts or downshifts
occur)

Shift setting "R"

= Reverse

Operation

DANGER !
When the auxiliary control unit is in operation, none of
the safety functions are operational.
RISK OF ACCIDENT!
Please therefore pay careful attention to the following
points:
Shifting from "N" to "D" or from "N" to "R" ; only ever
possible at idle speed and while vehicle is stationary. The transmission can also perform gear changes
at higher engine speeds - however this does lead to
transmission damage.
Before every change from forwards to reverse travel
or vice versa, always ensure that the vehicle is completely stationary.
After shifting into "D" or "R", always wait for 2
seconds to enable the transmission to engage before starting to accelerate.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

27

Maintenance
3

Maintenance

3.1 Oil Grade

Good maintenance delivers operational reliability for the

transmission. It is therefore very important to ensure that
all maintenance work required is consistently carried out
to the required standard.

CAUTION
When filling Ecomat transmissions, always use oils specified on the latest version of the ZF List of Lubricants TEML 14:
The most recent version of this List of Lubricants can
be obtained from all ZF Sales & Service Centers, or can
be downloaded from the Internet from www.zf.com
(Products for Technical Information List of Lubricants).

THREATS TO THE ENVIRONMENT!

Lubricants and cleaning agents must not be allowed to
escape into the ground, surface water or the drainage
system.
Ask your local environment agency for safety information on the relevant products and adhere to their
requirements.
Collect used oil in a suitably large container.
Dispose of used oil, dirty filters, lubricants, and
cleaning agents in accordance with environmental
protection guidelines.
When working with lubricants and cleaning agents
always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

28

Maintenance
3.2 Oil Quantities in the ZF-Ecomat

3.3 Oil Level Check

For the initial fill of a dry transmission, approx. 28 liters

(dm3)

CAUTION
Achieving the correct oil level is extremely important.

After installation of new / replacement transmissions,

approx. 20 liters (dm3)

After oil changes: After approx. 10 minutes, the following

oil quantities are setting
Ecomat, flat oil pan:

approx. 12 dm3

Ecomat, deep oil pan:

approx. 13 dm3

Ecomat 2, flat oil pan:

approx. 17 dm3

Ecomat 2, deep oil pan:

approx. 18 dm3

NOTE
The vehicle must be parked on level ground when checking the oil level.
CAUTION
Check the oil level at operating temperature to obtain a
definitive figure.
Check the oil level at the quarterly service interval in
the workshop.
Conduct regular visual inspections of the transmission
for signs of leakage.
In exceptional cases the oil level may need to be checked while the transmission oil is cold - refer to Chapter 3.3.2. Then always check the oil again at normal
operating temperature.
If the heat exchanger is arranged above the centerline
of the transmission (separate installation), the oil level
must be checked in accordance with Chapter 3.3.3.

NOTE
With the optional extra of auxiliary cooling, the oil quantity increases to approx. 2 dm3.
CAUTION
The figures shown here are intended for guidance. In all
cases, measurement with the dipstick provides the definitive value.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

DANGER !
Insufficient oil in the system leads to partial or complete failure of the retarder, i.e. braking action is
impaired or non-existent.

29

Maintenance
3.3.1 Checking Oil at Operating Temperature

3.3.2 Reference Value Calculation

The definitive temperature reading is always the one

obtained from the hot transmission oil (80 to 90 C).

This oil level measurement, carried out while the transmission oil is cold, is applied under the following exceptional circumstances:

Conditions:

When a transmission enters service for the first time

Park vehicle on level ground

After extended stationary periods, e.g. when taking over

a third party vehicle

Move speed range selector into Neutral

Following repair work on a vehicle transmission: E.g.

removal of the oil pan, hydraulic control unit, oil cooler
etc.

Let engine run at idle speed

After waiting for approx. 2 minutes, the oil level should be
up in the hot range.

After oil or filter changes

CAUTION
The engine idle speed should be set to between 500 and
700 rpm. It must never drop below 450 rpm.

Calculation of the flat rate (labor charge) can be divided

into three steps:
Checking before starting the engine
Checking after starting the engine
Checking at operating temperature

Hot range 80 - 90 C {

011577
4139 758 103 - 2004-09

30

Maintenance
3.3.2.1 Checking Before Starting the Engine

3.3.2.2 Checking After Starting the Engine

The oil level must be within or above the range called

"neng = 0".

Run the engine for approx. 3 to 5 minutes at idle speed

(speed range selector in Neutral), then check the oil level.
The oil level should be inside the defined 30 C range.

NOTE
If the oil level is higher than this, do not drain any oil!

Stationary range (neng = 0)

NOTE
If the oil level is higher than this, do not drain any oil!
CAUTION
After cold starts at sub-zero temperatures, the tip of the
dipstick must be immersed at least 10 mm in the oil before considering the oil to have reached operating temperature (to obtain a valid reading). The definitive oil level
check (at operating temperature) should be conducted as
soon as possible, (refer to Chapter 3.3.1).

011577

Cold range 30 C {
011577

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

31

Maintenance
3.3.3 Checking With Separate Heat Exchanger Mounted Above Centerline of Transmission

3.4

Option for Heating Up the Transmission Oil

The transmission oil can be heated up to its specified

operating temperature for oil check purposes by running
the vehicle, running retarder cycles until the oil sump
temperature reaches 80 - 90 C.

Run transmission in Neutral for 15 to 20 seconds at neng =

1200 to 1500 rpm.
NOTE
Within 3 minutes of engine running at idle speed, perform
the "Check After Starting the Engine" (Chapter 3.3.2.2) closely followed by the "Check at Operating Temperature"
(Chapter 3.3.1).

If normal operation of the vehicle is not possible, the oil

needs to be heated up in one of the following ways:
Apply parking brake
Select speed range "D"
Apply the service brake
Run engine several times at part throttle (as required)
for 15 to 20 seconds at 1200 to 1500 rpm.
CAUTION
Max. permitted oil temperature upstream of heat
exchanger is 110 C (continuous).
After every heating phase and with the transmission in
Neutral, run engine at 1500 to 2000 rpm for 15 to 30
seconds.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

32

Maintenance
3.5

Once the oil has reached operating temperature:

Transmission in Neutral

Oil Change Intervals

The oil change intervals defined in ZF List of Lubricants

TE-ML 14 are binding.

Run engine for 2 to 3 minutes

Then check oil level as described in Chapter 3.3.1.

NOTE
The latest List of Lubricants can be obtained from all ZF
Sales & Service Centers or can be downloaded from the
Internet under www.zf.com (Information Technical
Information List of Lubricants.
CAUTION
The oil filter must be replaced at every oil change.
NOTE
When changing the oil from a mineral-based to a partially
synthetic, hydrocracked, or synthetic grade of ATF, it is
advisable to conduct an intermediate oil change at the half
way point to the next specified service interval.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

33

Maintenance
3.6 Draining the Oil

3.7 Filling With Oil

NOTE
Drain the oil - only while at operating temperature and
over a period lasting at least 10 minutes.

Fit filter cover (screw tightening torque 25 Nm)

Screw in oil drain plug (1) (tightening torque
50 Nm)

Engine must be stationary

Remove dipstick (3)

Unscrew oil drain plug (1) and drain oil

Top up oil (for oil quantities, refer to Chapter 3.2)

Remove filter cover (2)

Check oil level in accordance with Chapter 3.3

Replace filter cartridge, copper rings, and O-rings

013172

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

013173

34

Maintenance
3.8 Draining / Filling Oil on ZF Angle Drive
NOTE
The ZF angle drive shares an oil supply with the ZFEcomat.
Oil fill quantity: approx. 1 dm3
Oil grade:
In accordance with List of Lubricants TE-ML 14 (Chapter
3.1)
Oil change intervals:
In conjunction with the Ecomat transmission
NOTE
Drain the oil: Only when at operating temperature
ZF 80 angle drive
Engine must be stationary
Unscrew oil drain plug on angle drive and drain oil
Screw oil drain plug into angle drive (tightening torque
50 Nm)

ZF ST 10000 angle drive

This angle drive does not have its own oil drain plug. Its
oil is drained from the main transmission circuit.

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

35

Maintenance
3.9 Checking the Load Sensor Setting (Ecomat)

CAUTION
Do not use detents on load sensor housing for setting
purposes.
Do not unfasten screws on load sensor housing or nut
on shaft.
Check ball heads for wear (excessive clearance) and
grease fill.

The setting of the load sensor must be checked:

After all maintenance on transmission or engine
If hard shift impacts occur
At least once every 3 months
Implementing checks
(for this check to be effective, the engine must be at the
correct setting)

Detents

This level check can be conducted using the marks on the

front face or top of the housing.
Switch off engine
Apply parking brake

low

Slowly depress accelerator pedal to its pressure point

(full throttle detent on fuel injection pump), press firmly
- but do not go past the kickdown point.

000822

low

Maintain accelerator pedal setting; mark on load sensor

lever must match the full throttle mark (high) on the
housing.
Release accelerator pedal until idle speed setting is
reached.

high

000824

Mark on load sensor lever must be aligned with idle

speed mark (low) on housing.
4139 758 103 - 2004-09

high

36

Trouble shooting

Error

Possible cause

Remedial action

Engine will not start

Speed range selector not in "Neutral"

Select "Neutral" on speed range selector

ECU connector loose

Re-establish plug connection

Starter inhibit relay defective or missing

CAN signal

Replace relay or check CAN signal

Accelerator pedal not in idle speed position

or load signal too high

Check or adjust settings of accelerator

pedal / fuel injection pump

Motorleerlaufdrehzahl > 900 min-1

Adjust engine idle speed

Only on transmissions with additional

"gear release" function:
Service brake not applied

Apply the service brake

ECU in malfunction setting

Switch ignition on/off

Oil level too low

Check / Correct oil level

Transmission defective

Call ZF Service

Oil level too high

Check / Correct oil level

Retarder engaged

Switch off retarder using hand lever

Internal damage

Call ZF Service

Oil level too low

Check / Correct oil level

Retarder proportional valve or solenoid valve

not operating, CAN signal not present

Check CAN signal

Transmission does not engage

any gears

Vehicle does not move

Oil temperature too high

Retarder not responding

4139 758 103 - 2004-09

37