ZF S5-42 5-Speed Transmission ID Tag - Ford Part E8TA-7003-ZB Data Plate

This is a photograph of the riveted metal identification/data plate on a ZF-built manual transmission supplied to Ford. The tag carries both the ZF and Ford logos and identifies the unit as a ZF Model S 5-42 five-speed transmission. Key data stamped on the plate includes the ZF parts list number 1307 050 011, transmission serial number 8057981, and Ford part number E8TA-7003-ZB. The gear ratio spread is listed as 5.72 (first gear) to 0.76 (overdrive fifth). The build date is stamped 062888 (June 28, 1988, or June 1988 in MMDDYY/MMYY format). The plate specifies an oil capacity of 3.2 liters and calls for Ford oil grade ESP-M2C 166-H. The Speedo Gear field is blank, and the tag states the unit was made in the USA. A reader can use this plate to positively identify the transmission model, verify its serial number for parts lookup or registration, determine the correct fluid type and fill quantity, and date the unit's manufacture. The 'E8' prefix in the Ford part number and the 1988 build date indicate this is a 1988-era transmission unit.