4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Repairing or Replacing a Machine Spare Part

When a part fails in your manufacturing plant, you are then faced with a significant decision:  should I repair the failed part or buy a new one? Several factors can go into your decision for how to proceed with the part. Luckily, the checklist below can help you decide the best option for your failed part.

• How much will it cost to repair the part?
  1. If repairing the part will cost less than 70% of the cost to buy a new one, then it is a good idea to repair.
  2. If repairing the part will cost more than 70% of the cost to buy new, then it is best to replace the part.

• How long will the part take to repair or replace?
  1. If the part is needed urgently and it will take significantly less time to repair a part rather than replacing, repairing the part is best.
  2. If the part is needed urgently and it will take significantly less time to replace a part rather than repairing, repairing the part is best.

• Do you have a trusted repair source for the part?
  1. If you have a partner that you can trust to repair or find a repair vendor for the part, then it is best to repair. This will ensure you get a quality repair for your part.
  2. If you do not know anyone who can find a trusted repair source, it is best to replace the part to avoid a getting low-quality repair.

• Does your plant have the proper infrastructure in place to send the part out for repair?
  1. If your team has a process for repairs or has a partner than can manage repairs for you, it may be best to repair the failed part.
  2. If your team does not have an existing partner or process for repairs, it may be best to replace the part until you have a solution in place. This will help avoid the failed part getting lost in the shuffle of an efficient plant.

If you answered “1” for most of the questions above, repairing your failed machine part may be the best option. If you answered “2” most, replacing your failed part is best.

Curious to learn more about whether repairing your failed machine spare parts is the best option for you? As your global leaders in industrial repair management, you can turn to us. Contact us at info@ahgroupna.com for more information.