BUSINESS ISSUES
Operation and Safety Manual and Parts Manual for the machine for additional guidance on replacing worn parts.
Stick to the inspection checklist
While each component on a machine should be inspected following the OEM’ s recommended maintenance schedule, some parts require more frequent attention. Get to know which wear parts are important to inspect— and what signs suggest it’ s time to replace them.
What are the options for replacing parts?
Q3 Genuine Parts
A factory-approved part that is supplied by the original equipment manufacturer( OEM) in their packaging is known as a genuine part. Genuine parts are the exact replacement parts for your equipment, so you don’ t have to worry if they will be as effective as the previous one. They will most likely come with a manufacturer’ s warranty, improving the confidence level you can have in the parts and maximizing the resale value of the equipment.
Aftermarket Parts
As the name suggests, aftermarket parts come out after the equipment has come to the market. These parts follow the same designs as the original versions; however, they might be slightly enhanced or use different materials after producers see what did or didn’ t work in the initial versions. Aftermarket parts can also come from a different
Once the walk-around inspection is completed, perform a function check on all the machine’ s systems to ensure they operate properly. These should be done in an area free of overhead and ground-level obstructions.
manufacturer than the one who originally produced them.
While not always the case, aftermarket parts tend to cost less than genuine parts— but remember that quality varies by manufacturer. With aftermarket parts, there is always the risk of counterfeit or low-quality parts, which is why purchasing them from a reputable manufacturer is important. Using these parts can also affect or void the coverage on the equipment, but the competitor may offer a parts warranty, as well. Like with any purchase, it’ s good to do your homework.
Competitive Parts
When a manufacturer offers replacement parts for its competitor’ s machines, these components are called competitive parts. Competitive parts have evolved to become more comparable to OEM parts with the same form, fit and function as the originals. They are crafted to look and function like genuine parts from other original equipment manufacturers, but if they are not sourced directly from the OEM, they
How and where the machine is used contributes to its productivity and efficiency. It’ s important for crews to check for environmental job site hazards like uneven terrain, severe weather, debris and other obstructions in their daily workplace inspections.
14 l May-June 2025