If a discontinued model remains in working order, it may stay in use; the risk is finding a matching part during a fault or accessory change. Confirm supplier-specific timeframes in writing.
Count the fleet and parts
Record model and serial details, quantities, fault history and parts consumed. Identify critical items such as castors, gaskets or catches from actual equipment use.
Check compatibility with evidence
Verify whether the successor shares parts or accessories with the old body using part numbers, dimensioned drawings or a trial fit. Similar appearance is not enough.
Base the transition on records
Get production end and parts supply information from the supplier in writing. Compare limited spare purchases with phased replacement using faults, actual consumption, stock and confirmed fit.
If old and new models remain together, track bodies and accessories under separate IDs. This keeps incompatible parts from being assigned to the wrong model and preserves the basis for the next purchase.
