Steering damper replacement

It is time, actually past time, to replace the steering dampers on my 2004 Hustler Mini Z. My question is OEM parts versus aftermarket parts, are OEM parts worth the extra cost, aftermarket parts are manufactured to OEM standards, would I be making a mistake by saving money on aftermarket.

Just my opinion, I always use OEM parts bought from a dealer. That way if there is a problem I have some recourse to help in rectifying it. Built to OEM specs in today’s economy is just words on paper. Penny wise and dollar foolish can get DYI guys into trouble very quickly.

Stemwinder said:

It is time, actually past time, to replace the steering dampers on my 2004 Hustler Mini Z. My question is OEM parts versus aftermarket parts, are OEM parts worth the extra cost, aftermarket parts are manufactured to OEM standards, would I be making a mistake by saving money on aftermarket.

Click to expand...

Whether it is a steering damper, or deck pulley, or whatever part, I have had good results with aftermarket parts. Lots of aftermarket parts have been used by me over the years, and I don’t have complaints or comebacks.
Occasionally, such as ignition coils, I will use OEM parts. When OEM versus aftermarket is 2 to 5 times the cost, it is difficult to justify the additional expense.

It depends on how much of a gambler you are.

I weight up (as best I can) the pro's/cons's of the purchase;

• You can take a greater risk if its your own machine, compared with a paying customers.
• Part failure - could this cause damage/increased cost? Do you have access to an alternative machine?
• Machine - Is this a contractors/money earning machine that "down time" will cost you more than the savings of a cheap part?
• Check with a professional repair shop - I just checked on a replacement starter motor - given the age/condition of the machine, the advise was to go with the aftermarket at about 1/4 of the OM price.

Years ago I purchased an aftermarket electric PTO clutch - Looked great (just like the OM) and the price, very attractive. Unfortunatly it lasted almost no time. Purchased the OM and it's still going 10 years latter. On the other hand have purchased after market parts where the OM no longer available that worked and are still working well.

On just a steering damper I would go AM.

22R