I agree, but OEM and OE can mean different things. OE can stand for original equivilent (likely junk), or original equiptment. hard to say, i know 22re performance is a pretty reputable source, but, Parts geek (which i haven't ordered from before) is listing the pump as a kyosan for a bit cheaper.
True…
Typically, if you go to a car dealership, they say “OE”… Original Equipment - that’s what came on the vehicle from the factory.
Just because some part is designated as OEM - Original Equipment Manufacturer - doesn’t necessarily mean you are buying the part that was manufactured by the same manufacturer as the “original” part. There can be different OEMs – produced in two different manufacturing facilities supposedly to the same specifications, but with possibly different quality assurance and quality control. The specs may or may not be exactly the same, although that is assumed.
If you buy a part in 2017 that was an OEM part in 2010, it may be the same exact part and part number. But… if that part had a “revision”, possibly because the original design had a flaw, so the factory revised the specification to correct the design flaw, and typically will assign it a different part number. Both parts are still designated as OEM.
The OEM part does not always guarantee it is better quality than an aftermarket part, although it is generally assumed OEM parts meet and maintain the same specifications.
Small niche specialty suppliers like Marlin Crawler, 22RE Performance, LCE, or engbldr sell quality parts because that is their business, and their consumer perceived reputation can make or break them quickly. You may pay more for their parts, but if you have a question or want to consult with them about the application, they answer their phone and provide quality technical support – how much is that worth? If you buy the same part brand from a large online distributor like RockAuto, PartsGeek, or Randys Worldwide and you have an issue or question, when you call them will they answer their phone and will you get the same quality support?
Buying a quality part, at a fair market price, and getting good customer support is always a challenge for the average consumer.
Gnarls.
