The Spicer name has been part of the auto and machine parts industry for over a century. Currently, Spicer parts are specifically high quality OE parts for axles, drive trains and steering assemblies. As OE parts, these parts by Spicer offer a number of advantages.
A Brief History of Spicer
Clarence Spicer founded a company in the early 1900’s that specialized in making a part that he patented—the drive shaft with U-joints. He was a brilliant inventor, but needed business expertise and funding – and one day he met Charles Dana, who provided both. Their company went on to become known as Dana Limited, a leader in the production of axle, steering and drive line parts. Even now, Dana parts are considered an industry standard for many types of machines, and the Spicer line is part of these.
The Difference Between Spicer and Dana Parts
The names Spicer and Dana have been joined for over 100 years, with various combinations of the names being on both the company and the parts that the company makes. These days, Dana is the name of the company and the Dana name goes on every part the company produces. Spicer parts are among those parts produced by the Dana company, specifically the Original Equipment (OE) parts for the steering system, drive train and axles, which often carry the moniker “Dana Spicer.”
What is Original Equipment?
Original Equipment (OE) refers to parts that were on a machine when it was originally manufactured, and also replacement parts that were made to the same specifications by the same manufacturer. Sometimes the company that makes the machine is not the same company that makes the individual part. For instance, Jeep makes several vehicles that actually use Dana axles with Spicer parts in them, so the Spicer components are considered OE.
Why are OE Parts Better?
It’s always best to use parts on your machine that were designed for it. An OE part has the correct size, shape and tolerances, allowing the machine to run more smoothly to its full capacity with less stress on the other components. Ordering OE parts is easier, too, because in most cases they even have the same part numbers as the original.
Palmer Johnson Power Systems is a Spicer dealer who can get you the original parts you need for all of your off-highway vehicles. Visit the website to view information about available parts manufactured by Spicer and others.
