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When shopping for truck parts online, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. You may have questions like “How do you know which brake shoe to buy?” “Will it fit the brake system on my truck?” and “Will it function the same way and be of the same quality as the one I’m replacing?”
That’s where part number cross-references can come in handy. With numerous manufacturers and suppliers of truck parts offering endless choices for truck parts, cross-references can help you search for and identify parts comparable to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts for your make and model, eliminating the guesswork and making it easier to find the correct parts the first time.
What Is a Cross-Reference Part?
Parts cross-references, also called part interchanges, make it easy to find the right truck parts quickly and accurately when you need to replace or repair a component of your vehicle. Cross-references are aftermarket parts that share the same characteristics as and can serve as replacements for OEM parts. They should be directly compatible with your vehicle and match the same quality.
Let’s say the clutch on your truck fails and needs to be replaced. You locate the broken component and search for its part number online, only to find that the OEM discontinued that specific part several years prior. Instead of admitting defeat, you search for cross-references for the clutch part number and find several replacements designed for your specific make and model that match the same fit and function as the original part. You buy the replacement part and install it without having to worry whether it will fit, and your clutch is back to functioning like new.
Benefits of Cross-References in Your Part Search
Besides helping you find interchangeable parts when your go-to part is discontinued, out of stock or on back order, part number cross-references can be extremely helpful in other ways.
- Find Cheaper Options: Searching for cross-references for a specific part number may help you find less expensive alternatives and save you money on repair costs.
- Avoid Unnecessary Downtime: When you cross-reference OEM parts with aftermarket parts, you can ensure that the replacement part you purchase is compatible with your vehicle. Purchasing an incorrect part may cause reduced performance and efficiency or even a breakdown that can lead to costly repairs and downtime.
- Discover New Brands: You may discover new brands and manufacturers you like that offer better availability, quality and price points.
- Save Time: Cross-reference databases provide alternative part options in one convenient location, eliminating the need to manually search manufacturer catalogs or contact multiple suppliers.
Tips for Effectively Using Truck Part Cross-References
The process of searching for part interchanges will differ depending on where you shop, but in general, most parts suppliers will show cross-references in one of two places: a part search tool or product pages. Cross-reference search tools typically allow you to type in a part name or unique part number/SKU and receive a list of like parts with the same attributes. Online product pages also typically include cross-references or similar parts underneath the product details.
Below are a few tips to help you streamline your truck parts search and find the right replacement parts.
- Double-Check Accuracy: Make sure to enter the correct part number to avoid errors and reduce the risk of purchasing parts that don’t fit or function the way you need them to.
- Expand Your Options: Don’t limit yourself to searching for parts from just a few brands. Explore cross-references from various manufacturers to find alternative parts with better availability or pricing.
- Read Product Details: Always read the product details when viewing cross-references to confirm their compatibility and functionality with your vehicle.
- Reach Out for Assistance: If you’re unsure about a cross-referenced part or need further guidance, contact our RushCare Rapid Parts team. Our parts agents have the OEM parts experience and cross-reference knowledge to answer your questions and source the right parts for your vehicle.
Rush Truck Centers All-Makes Parts Catalog
Our All-Makes Parts Catalog offers more than 16,000 popular all-make truck and trailer parts with extensive cross-references from the top suppliers in the industry. Find the parts you need with descriptions, application details, full-color product images, tech and product tips, and more.
Explore the Rush Truck Centers catalog online and search for products, bookmark pages and share with your colleagues, or download the catalog to quickly reference the parts you need. Printed catalogs are available by visiting any Rush Truck Centers location nationwide or contacting your sales representative.
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