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how does the spare parts business work?

i always wondered about this.the way i imagined was that besides producing the cars the production line would stamp out 5 times as many cars worth in parts,some parts even in larger quantities - all the parts ever needed till the end of expected support period (say 10 years). when they reach this figure production stops (unless a future model will be based on this design).10 years later the machines and bluprints are auctioned off to the imitation parts manufacturers.

anyone know how it actually works? thx

B
Reply to
beerismygas
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It would depend on the part. Many of the parts will be sourced from an outside supplier - steering parts, auto gearboxes, electrics, brakes etc. And possibly from more than one supplier for an identical part. As regards body panels, it's usually possible to get 'pattern' replacements during the normal life of a car, which upsets the makers since they claim design rights. But many of the parts required to make a worn engine as new will be available from other sources - pistons, bearings, valves etc

British Motor Heritage do salvage old tools to re-manufacture obsolete panels - hence you can buy complete new body shells for some old cars, like MGs, Triumph and Mini.

Reply to
Dave Plowman (News)

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