Diesel engine spare parts in the aftermarket is a growing need in today’s market place. In some instances, OEM suppliers do not have the needed parts available, with no expected time frame as to when they will be available. In these circumstances you have alternative choices – Used Parts, Remanufactured or New Aftermarket. Each option has their benefits and drawbacks.
Used Diesel Engine Parts
These are parts that are salvaged from used engines and are usually OEM in nature. Most of the time, the truck itself was damaged in such a way the only thing that can be salvaged is the diesel engine and the used spare parts. As these parts are from OEM engines, mounting issues are not generally a problem. Used parts though do not have as long of a life cycle as other parts since they are “used parts”, and there is no guarantee how long they will last and usually do not come with any warranty.
Remanufactured Diesel Engine Parts
These are parts that have a main housing (core) that is still in good shape, but the rest of the parts may not be. In this case, the part is dismantled and the core of the part is rebuilt using newer parts. There is no guarantee that the internal parts are from OEM suppliers, which can lead to problems with parts “meshing” properly and working the way they should. This option usually requires a core exchange when purchasing a remanufactured part, otherwise the part will cost more. Also, the part being purchased could have a core from an Aftermarket part, which could cause problems on the rebuild. Remanufactured parts are less expensive than OEM counterparts and should last longer then used parts. Most remanufacturers offer limited warranties, whereas used parts have no warranties.
New Aftermarket
These are parts that are meant to replace OEM parts. Aftermarket parts are brand new items, unlike used parts and have not been used then rebuilt. These parts are generally less expensive than the previous options, and would not require a core exchange like remanufactured parts. The term aftermarket generally has the consumer thinking the quality is not as good as the OEM, and in some cases this can be true. There are Aftermarket suppliers though work hard to provide best quality possible for the prices the market demands. Some of the products offered can be comparable in quality with its OEM counterpart. Unless your budget is really tight, used parts generally are used as a temporary fix until the truck is due for a major overhaul. Remanufactured parts and New Aftermarket parts can be just as equal to one another, but be diligent in researching potential new suppliers in either field. New Aftermarket parts commonly have a longer warranty along with being “new” parts. No matter your diesel engine or spare parts needs, there can be a right time for all three options.
