Using Alternative Parts in Kits

What is this?

Some parts have substitutes. The OEM belt might be out of stock, but an aftermarket equivalent works just as well. When you build a kit, you can add alternative parts to any line item. When someone applies the kit to a work order, they pick which option to use based on what is in stock.

Who is this for?

• Parts Managers - Define approved substitutes upfront so mechanics do not have to guess which aftermarket part is acceptable.
• Mechanics - See your options right in the kit. Pick whatever is on the shelf without calling the parts desk.
• Purchasing - Approved alternatives reduce rush orders. If the primary is out of stock, the backup is pre-approved.

How to set up alternatives

Step 1: Add a part to your kit

When creating or editing a kit, add a part as usual. Once added, you will see the part with its quantity and a field below it: "Search part to add as alternative..."

Step 2: Search for the alternative

Type in the alternative part name or number. The dropdown shows matching parts from your inventory. Select the substitute.

Step 3: Choose alternatives when applying the kit

When someone applies this kit to a work order, items with alternatives show a dropdown. The primary part is selected by default (marked "primary"). Click to switch to an alternative.

The full details

• Alternatives are optional. Not every part in a kit needs one. Only add alternatives where real substitutes exist.
• The primary part is always pre-selected. The mechanic only switches if needed.
• Each line item can have multiple alternatives. OEM, aftermarket, rebuilt. List all approved options.
• Alternatives are defined in the kit, not per work order. Set them up once and they appear every time the kit is used.

Tips

• Add alternatives for parts that frequently go out of stock. If the OEM filter has a 6-week lead time, add the aftermarket equivalent now.
• Use alternatives for OEM vs. aftermarket choices. The primary can be OEM, the alternative aftermarket. The mechanic picks based on what is in the bin.
• Do not add alternatives for unique parts. If only one gasket fits, do not add a substitute just because the field is there. Wrong alternatives cause more problems than no alternatives.