There is no shortage of hydraulic replacement parts available for purchase. Online retailers and hydraulic repair shops often sell aftermarket parts at what appears to be a good deal. However, cheaper is not always better, especially in demanding applications and those involving harsh operating environments.
Cost, availability, and the quality and performance requirements for your application are all things to consider when choosing replacement parts for your hydraulic equipment. In this short guide, we break down the differences between factory authorized/OEM hydraulic parts and aftermarket parts, including the top advantages and disadvantages of each.
What Are OEM Hydraulic Parts?
Genuine OEM parts, also known as “factory authorized,” are made by the original equipment manufacturer. They are designed to the specifications of the hydraulic equipment brand, meeting specific requirements for fit, material, tolerances, and system performance.
Advantages of OEM Hydraulic Replacement Parts
- Guaranteed compatibility, no modifications required
- Meets strict OEM specifications
- Complies with the manufacturer’s equipment warranty requirements
- Guaranteed high quality due to extensive testing
- Better mechanical performance and reliability
- Comes with a manufacturer’s warranty
OEM Hydraulic Part Considerations
- More expensive than aftermarket parts
- Can have longer lead times or require special order
- Discontinued parts can be difficult to source
What Are Aftermarket Hydraulic Parts?
Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers. They are designed to be “drop-in” replacements, though product specifications can vary widely. While some manufacturers design to OEM specifications, the products do not always undergo the same rigorous testing as factory authorized parts.
Advantages of Aftermarket Hydraulic Replacement Parts
- Less expensive option compared to factory authorized/OEM parts
- More readily available
- Convenient option for legacy equipment with discontinued parts numbers
Aftermarket Hydraulic Part Considerations
- General fit that varies by manufacturer, sometimes requiring modifications
- Not designed to meet strict OEM specifications, leading to variations in materials and performance
- Installation could potentially void equipment warranties
- Typically does not come with a warranty on the part itself
- Inconsistent quality
The Choice Comes Down to Quality and Performance
Aftermarket parts will save you money, but as you can see, there are several benefits to using factory authorized hydraulic parts. The higher cost of OEM parts pays off in terms of fit and performance, both of which help prevent breakdowns and extend the operating life of your equipment.
Aftermarket replacement parts can work in a pinch, such as emergency repairs when you are unable to reach a hydraulic repair center with OEM parts. It will be enough to keep your equipment moving until you can schedule time with a repair center. For this reason alone, it is always a good idea to keep spare OEM hydraulic replacement parts on hand for quick maintenance.
What To Look for in a Hydraulic Equipment Repair Center
The type of shop performing your repairs matters just as much as the quality of parts installed in your hydraulic system. Before sending your hydraulic equipment in for repair, ask if they:
- Perform repairs in-house using factory-trained technicians
- Use factory authorized/OEM hydraulic parts and components
- Test repaired equipment for compliance with OEM specifications
- Offer customer support and a certificate of warranty on parts and repair
Our technicians have experience repairing equipment from nearly every hydraulic manufacturer and Oil-Air Products is an authorized warranty and factory service center for Danfoss, Moog, Oilgear, and Parker-Denison. We can also assist in troubleshooting hydraulic system performance issues and test all repairs in-house to OEM specifications.
Learn more about our repair services or give us a call to discuss your equipment challenges! From product recommendations to full-service system design and repair, we have your fluid power needs covered.