Heavy Equipment Parts: Choosing Between OEM And Aftermarket Parts

When your business relies on heavy equipment for operations, keeping these machines running is important to your bottom line. Whether it is regular maintenance or a needed repair you have the option of choosing between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or aftermarket parts.

OEM parts are those that were originally made for the equipment. They will always fit your machine properly the way it was first built. These parts are available only from heavy equipment suppliers chosen by the manufacturer.

Aftermarket parts are made by companies other than the original manufacturer. These parts may be made to replicate the exact part needed, but they may also be made to improve the performance of the machine.

Most of the time, using either type of heavy equipment part will ensure the machine is running properly. It will be up to you to decide which type to use. Here are a few tips to help with the decision:

Cost

Most of the time aftermarket parts are going to be less expensive than OEM parts. This, in part, is due to the fact that there are many different aftermarket part manufacturers and suppliers. OEM parts are only made by the company that made the machine originally. OEM suppliers go with the prices the manufacturer demands whereas aftermarket suppliers must also consider competing suppliers.

Availability

When a machine is not running, it can create problems with meeting the demands of your clients. You need to be sure any parts you need for the repair are available as soon as possible. OEM heavy equipment parts may need to be ordered from the manufacturer, taking time to get to you. In addition, if you have an older machine, the OEM parts may no longer be made and sold. Since there are many manufacturers and suppliers of aftermarket parts it is often faster to get them than an OEM part.

Quality

An OEM part is always going to be of the same quality as the machine. It will always fit and work as intended. However, with a bit of research, you may find there are aftermarket parts that not only fit as well as OEM parts but are made with better materials and will improve the performance of the machine. 

Once you consider the above, it will be your decision as to which heavy equipment parts to use. If you are unsure, talk with the maintenance department or look on a reputable website. The important thing is to have your machines operating to keep your business running.