Obsolete / Hard-to-Source Components
Obsolete and hard-to-source components are parts no longer made by the original manufacturer or not available locally. We locate remaining stock, find equivalents, or reverse-engineer and manufacture replacements, keeping older equipment running.
What it is
Sourcing starts with the part number, sample and machine details. We search distributors and alternative suppliers, check cross-references for equivalents, and where nothing exists, measure the part and manufacture a replacement.
Reverse engineering considers material, heat treatment and wear, not just dimensions, so the new part performs like the original.
Typical applications
- Spares for imported or old machines
- Discontinued OEM parts
- Legacy gears, shafts and bushes
- Obsolete fittings and hardware
- Components for plant maintenance
Materials & grades
- Steels, stainless steels and cast iron
- Aluminium, brass, bronze and copper
- Engineering plastics and rubber
Points to consider
- Share machine make, model and part number if available.
- A worn sample plus the mating parts helps reverse engineering.
- Material testing may be needed to match the original.
- Order spares in advance for critical equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Can you find obsolete parts?
We search for remaining stock and equivalents, and if none exist, manufacture a replacement from the sample.
What is reverse engineering?
Measuring and analysing an existing part, including material and heat treatment, to create a drawing and make a replacement.
What information helps sourcing?
Part number, machine make and model, photos and ideally the old part itself.