Heavy equipment fleet owners and operators in infrastructure maintenance understand that preventive maintenance and access to quality parts are critical to maximizing machine performance and service life.
However, it can be tempting to choose lower-cost aftermarket parts versus high-quality OEM parts if you do not understand what is at risk. Because aftermarket parts vary widely in quality they can yield unpredictable results.
The critical role of OEM parts in heavy equipment repair
OEM parts are engineered and manufactured to the form, fit and function of those originally installed on your heavy equipment. Investing in genuine OEM parts can have a significant impact on machine life, job site performance, maintenance costs and productivity.
Impact of non-OEM parts on equipment uptime
Aftermarket parts are designed to be compatible with a wide range of similar heavy machinery brands and manufacturers. Although some aftermarket parts may appear to meet OEM specifications, others offer varying levels of quality and fit which may lead to:
- Unplanned downtime and higher project costs
- More frequent preventative maintenance part replacement
- Cascading failures that can damage other machine parts
The true cost of OEM parts for heavy equipment
Initial investment vs. long-term savings: OEM parts are engineered to precise specifications for optimal fit and function which reduce the risk of misalignment, and premature machine wear and tear that lead to high maintenance costs.
Aftermarket parts may offer low prices, but inferior quality, fit and function can lead to performance, reliability, and useful life issues that often cost more in the long run.
Look for a reputable supplier that offers OEM parts direct from the manufacturer.
Impact on equipment lifespan and performance
OEM equipment parts are designed to work seamlessly with the equipment's other components to ensure optimal machine performance, production efficiency, workforce productivity, and reduced downtime.
Aftermarket parts may not meet the same quality standards as OEM parts which can lead to abnormal wear and tear, cascading part failures, and shorter machine life.
Identifying genuine OEM parts
Key indicators to help you recognize genuine OEM packaging and labeling:
- Manufacturer brand is correct and consistent on all packaging
- No broken seals or signs of repackaging
- Correct OEM information such as manufacturing address and ship from
- Product traceability with date, lot number, and materials used
- Bona fide warranty information
Verify part numbers and specifications:
- Verify that the part number on the label matches your OEM heavy equipment manual
- Use barcode and QR scanners to confirm authenticity
- Check online supplier catalogs for detailed descriptions, diagrams and part number identification
Recognizing potentially counterfeit parts:
- Exceptionally low pricing
- Packaging with poor print quality, spelling or punctuation errors
- Incorrect or missing QR and bar codes
- Lighter weight than the original part could signal low-quality materials
- Missing or incorrect warranty information
Streamlining the OEM parts buying process
Create an equipment inventory and parts list: Conducting thorough research and sourcing parts from authorized dealers and reputable aftermarket suppliers is crucial to mitigate the risks of counterfeit products.
Key factors to consider when choosing between aftermarket or OEM parts for your heavy equipment:
- Warranty: OEM parts may be required to maintain your warranty.
- Quality: Aftermarket parts can vary in quality depending on the manufacturer.
- Form, fit and function: OEM parts are specifically designed for form, fit and function on your original heavy equipment. Aftermarket parts are designed for a universal fit on a variety of machines and brands which can lead to misaligned components.
- Price and availability: OEM parts typically carry a higher price but are always available for shipment when you need them. Lower-cost aftermarket parts may not have the availability and quick response times of OEM heavy equipment dealers.
It’s important to research reputable manufacturers and parts suppliers to compare brand reputations, customer reviews, fulfillment schedules and quality standards.
Establish relationships with authorized dealers: Purchasing heavy equipment parts from authorized OEM dealers often comes with comprehensive warranty coverage, quality guarantees, factory-certified mechanics, and dedicated customer support services.
Authorized heavy machine parts suppliers have direct access to OEM manufacturers ensuring product availability, fast shipment, and a vast knowledge base to solve your problems.
Takeaway for contractors
Making the right choice between aftermarket and OEM parts replacement is critical to ensuring the reliability, safety and useful life of your heavy equipment.
Joe Johnson Equipment (JJE) has an extensive footprint providing heavy equipment solutions to municipalities and industrial contractors throughout the United States and Canada. JJE offers the best equipment and expert sales and service teams. Contractors trust JJE for new and pre-owned equipment sales, rentals, service, parts and training.
Visit www.jjei.com to learn more about JJE’s complete offering including sales of new and pre-owned equipment, rentals, service, parts and training.
