Maximizing uptime is the ultimate goal for every manufacturer. That means all manufacturers need to make a critical decision whenever a part wears or fails on a piece of equipment. Do you repair one of your most important investments with OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or generic (aftermarket) parts? Manufacturers may make the decision based on cost, but there are several other factors to consider before choosing the least expensive option.        

1. Intentional design – OEMs specifically design the part for your machine, usually from the original drawing. “The PCMC vault contains the original prints from tens-of-thousands of parts,” says Matt Schleicher, PCMC Parts Value Stream Leader. “This extensive archive proves valuable every day as customers request replacement parts on active machines that may date back more than 40 years.”
2. Top quality – Every OEM part meets manufacturer specifications. No corners are cut in the design or manufacturing. Critical dimensions and designs must pass inspection.
3. Better performance – OEM parts work exactly as the ones you are replacing. OEM parts provide assurance your machine will perform at its best.
4. Always available – OEMs create stocking strategies for commonly used parts. PCMC stocks more than 2,600 parts in a dedicated warehouse. Seventy percent ship within the same day. “Our 24/7 phone support ensures customers can place an order any hour of the day, any day of the week,” says Schleicher.
5. Easy selection – OEM parts usually come as a single option. You do not need to worry about comparison-shopping or feeling overwhelmed by a long list of generic parts.
6. Customer service – OEMs go beyond just taking the order. A network of support ensures someone who knows the parts firsthand helps answer your questions. The OEM can also suggest other parts that may need replacing along with your original need.
7. Backed by warranty – Most OEM parts come with at least a one-year warranty. Generic parts do not come with this peace of mind.

“OEM parts may be more expensive than generic parts, but you really do get what you pay for,” says Schleicher. “OEMs can help manufacturers understand their exact parts need at any time. OEMs can then quickly design, manufacture and ship the parts that guarantee equipment will run and business will move. PCMC commits to servicing our machines as long as they are in operation; often times resulting in a decades-long relationship with customers.”

Reconsidering the choice between an OEM part and its generic counterpart, a larger investment upfront can actually save money and time over the long haul. The true value of OEM parts is found far beyond their dollar sign.