Benefits of Aftermarket Hydraulic Cylinders

When you’re looking to replace your equipment’s hydraulic cylinders, you’re faced with a choice: OEM or aftermarket?
There’s a massive misconception that aftermarket cylinders and components are not as reliable as OEM parts or that they lack in quality. This leads to a common gut reaction to immediately reach for newer OEM models.
However, this is simply not the case. In fact, aftermarket hydraulic cylinders often rival or even exceed the quality of OEM parts. Getting all the facts about aftermarket models is essential so you can make the right decision for your operations.
Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of aftermarket hydraulic cylinders and how they differ from OEM versions so you can make an informed choice for your equipment.
Aftermarket Replacement Hydraulic Cylinders vs. OEM Hydraulic Cylinders
A common misconception is that aftermarket hydraulic cylinders are lower in quality than OEM cylinders. However, this is untrue. Reputable aftermarket manufacturers design cylinders to meet or even exceed OEM specifications. High-quality materials and strict quality control processes ensure reliable manufacturing.
Additionally, many independent suppliers specialize solely in hydraulics, allowing them to perfect their techniques, incorporate upgrades, and deliver cylinders that are just as reliable (or even more so) as their OEM counterparts.
Comparing Aftermarket and OEM Cylinders
To better understand the benefits of aftermarket models, let’s take a look at some of the key similarities and differences between OEM and aftermarket hydraulic cylinders.
| Feature | OEM Hydraulic Cylinders | Aftermarket Hydraulic Cylinders |
| Manufactured by | The original equipment manufacturer. | Independent third-party manufacturers. |
| Equipment compatibility | Guaranteed fit and specs. | Match or exceed OEM specs. |
| Cost | Typically higher due to branding and OEM markup. | Competitive pricing. |
| Availability | May require long waits. | Common sizes in stock and faster build times. |
| Design Flexibility | Fixed to the original design. | More freedom for customization. |
Why Choose Aftermarket Hydraulic Cylinders?
There are many benefits to choosing aftermarket replacement hydraulic cylinders:
- Cost Savings without Compromising Quality: Aftermarket cylinders avoid OEM brand-name markups and fees while still meeting or exceeding quality standards.
- Reduced Downtime and Quick Turnaround: Many aftermarket suppliers stock common sizes or can perform custom builds faster than long OEM lead times.
- Design Flexibility: Customization options such as mounting, stroke length, or upgraded seals are more easily accomplished for different equipment models.
- Greater Options and Vendor Support: Aftermarket vendors offer warranties, technical support, and competitive pricing.
Order Replacement Aftermarket Hydraulic Cylinders from Hydraulic Cylinders, Inc.
At Hydraulic Cylinders, Inc., we get you the right cylinders for your application to help you demolish downtime and get back to work. With a dedicated team of engineers and hydraulics experts, we can supply you with an aftermarket hydraulic cylinder that exceeds your performance requirements with quality and innovation.
Contact us for more information and our team will happily assist you. Request a quote to begin your order today.
Sources
- Why You Should Consider Aftermarket Hydraulic Parts. Mission Hydraulics. (n.d.). https://missionhyd.com/blog/consider-aftermarket-hydraulic-parts/
- Benefits of Buying Aftermarket Heavy Equipment Parts. ACT Parts. (n.d.). https://www.actparts.com/blog/benefits-of-buying-aftermarket-heavy-equipment-parts/
- Aftermarket vs OEM Hydraulic Cylinders for Construction Equipment: Understanding the Differences and Benefits. ConEquip. (June 2024). https://www.conequip.com/wp/conequip-101-learning/aftermarket-vs-oem-hydraulic-cylinders-for-construction-equipment-understanding-the-differences-and-









































