- This topic has 9 replies, 8 voices, and was last updated 18 years, 3 months ago by
.
-
Posts
-
Guys,
I wonder if you could offer some advice to a relative newcomer. I would like to know the most common spare parts that I should be carrying on my van. To date I have never really carried any spares and therefore this has meant that most jobs have required a return visit by myself. I’ve only ever charged for one visit but now I realise things have to change!
To benefit myself and customers I would like to be able to complete the majority of jobs on one visit. I do not have a spares shop close to hand so tend to order parts over the internet (Connection Dist).
I have searched this site to see if a list of common make and model spares exists but couldn’t find anything. I appreciate that machines may be more common in one area then another.
If any of you could suggest the relevant spare parts and the corresponding make and model (or series of machine) that I should carry I’d be really greatful.
Many thanks,
Mark
Re: Essential parts to always carry
Most wholesaler produce monthy ‘fliers’ that show the most popular parts throughout their special offers. Their websites too show special offers with which to gauge those parts most in demand. 8)
If washing machine repairs is your thing? Then a stock of various Askoll and Plaset pumps is a must. As is door interlocks and handles, loads of various carbon brushes and assemblies, not forgetting door interlocks and door boots. 😯
Do you do fridges, dryers and dishwashers as well? Then get yourself a bigger van and no doubt we can fill it for you? 😉
Cookers even? 😕
Re: Essential parts to always carry
Martin
Thanks for the speedy response.
I do a variety of different repairs including washing machines, dishwashers, driers and electric ovens. I can see the list might be quite large!!!!!
Mark
Re: Essential parts to always carry
I try to carry a good selection of carbon brushes for washing machines and belts for tumble dryers. I also have a few sizes of motor starter capacitors to cover dryers and the few washers that need them. I’ve never bought new ones but I have a range of electric water valves from scrap washing machines. Often you only need to change the solenoid coil. I keep about half a dozen door interlocks including Hotpoint WM and WMA types, Zanussi 3 and 4 tag. I also have a universal pump as fitted to Hotpoints, Zanussis etc. I keep 3 or 4 types of thermostat kits for Hotpoint/Creda dryers as they are also a common problem. I have a range of door handles and hinges also for Hotpoint and Zanussi washers/dryers.
For cookers I have 6″ & 7″ single and 7″ double spiral rings plus a couple of universal simmerstats. You can’t hope to carry fan oven or grill elements as there are hundreds of different sorts. Also worth keeping some sort of terminal block for the mains inlet on cookers as they often burn out due to insecure DIY wiring. You need assorted bits of wire including fibreglass covered stuff for cookers. Cable ties are also an essential item. Get a pack of 100 rubber washers for inlet hoses plus a few standard and extra long hoses.Re: Essential parts to always carry
Never bought a new inlet valve??! Im all for recycling but considering the grief that would come from one sticking open i dont think thats a road id go down.. Never forget that in our wonderful white goods world, if it can go wrong, it more than likely bloody will ! 🙂
Re: Essential parts to always carry
Look back on your last 3 months of trading. Any part you have needed more than once I would say start keeping in stock.
As already stated the everyday stuff is relatively cheap especially if you buy the pattern equivalent.
Keep clear of modules and motors as they are too dear to keep in. They can always be got on 24 hour delivery and due to the cost of the part delivery is generally free, unlike ordering the odd door seal or valve.
Re: Essential parts to always carry
i have managed to fill my renault traffic to the top so far, it worth keeping lots of elements as they are big money earners allways good to make there and then.
brushs, doorboots, interlocks, hotpoint and zanussi tumble states are all good to keep, i have also started keeping zanussi 3 turn elements (ele6336) as i have found this fit baumatics and all sorts even credas, neff 2 turn elements never stay on the van long.
new hoses i only stock 2.5 metre ones as they fit a multitude of jobs also with the valve i usally only change the soloniod seems to sort the problem with the minimum of fuss.
door handle and hinges especially servis and indesit you can normally get most parts at special prices if bought in bulk.
i do keep motors and a few modules but it all comes with time.
never order a special order part without pointing out to the customer they will be paying for it no matter what as these are rarely returnable!!!.good luck!
stuart
Re: Essential parts to always carry
A large flask of Tea or Coffee is handy along with a nice bit of Fruit Cake
😉
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.