Service Tips: Will-fit vs.OEM parts
Using a part that doesn’t fit well can jeopardize other components and shorten the life of the machine.
By Chuck Burton
Every machine will need replacement or repair parts at some point in its
equipment lifecycle. When it comes time to replace essential machine components, you may have the option to purchase either off-brand (“will-fit”) parts or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
While the choice may seem obvious at first, it is important to think beyond the individual part and the long-term impact to the machine. Let’s look at the differences between will-fit and OEM parts.
Performance and productivity
A will-fit part will do exactly what it says; it will fit a machine. OEM parts are specifically designed, engineered and tested by the manufacturer for their equipment. One main difference between a will-fit and OEM part is how well it performs in the machine. OEM parts are tested to ensure maximum performance, safety and reliability of the operating equipment. A will-fit part may not be a good fit for a machine, which can affect performance. For instance, a will-fit belt may not mate with the pulley grooves of a machine, causing it to occasionally jump off and trigger an alert. You spend time checking the alert and replacing the belt on the grooves.
Using a part that doesn’t fit well can jeopardize other components and shorten the life of the machine. A will-fit part is not guaranteed to match your machine, so occasionally it must be modified to fit the machine, causing additional productivity losses.
Replacement
When you buy an OEM part, you know it’s going to fit and perform the first time. A reliable distribution network that can match serial numbers makes it possible to know you are ordering the right part. Many manufacturers, including Doosan Portable Power, have online ordering websites and offer same-day shipping on most parts orders. A will-fit part isn’t designed to fit the machine exactly. If a part doesn’t fit well enough, the machine may not operate. This can be especially time consuming if the machine is in a remote area and you must wait for another part to be shipped.
Warranty
There are hundreds of different parts in one portable air compressor, generator or light tower. If you have one part not doing its job correctly, the machine may experience unexplained issues. There are times when a machine isn’t operating properly, and the problem is created by a single part. Will-fit parts introduce unknown variables that complicate troubleshooting a machine issue. OEM parts streamline diagnostics and can protect your machine warranty.
Price
OEM parts have a reputation for being more expensive than will-fit parts. While the upfront cost of some OEM parts may be higher than will-fit components, parts that last longer and provide better machine performance cost less over time. For example, buying a $10 will-fit filter rather than a $15 OEM filter is less expensive initially. However, if the will-fit filter does not have the correct filtration levels as specified by the manufacturer, the equipment will experience diminished overall service life. If you need to replace the will-fit filter more often — three $10 filters during the lifecycle of one $15 filter — you’ve actually paid more in the long run. Properly matched OEM parts provide great ROI and overall service life.
Understanding the differences between will-fit and OEM parts and how they may affect your machine will help you make an informed choice on replacement and repair parts.
Ed. Note: Chuck Burton is a product service manager at Doosan Portable Power.
This article appeared in the March-April 2020 issue of Pro Contractor Rentals magazine.
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