Translated Please

While looking thru parts magazines, I often notice in the description the letters OEM and/or NOS. What do they mean?

 

OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer: In most cases these are the same parts as factory original, but not always. For instance, Brembo might make a generic caliper that can be purchased as OEM, while making a slightly modified version as a factory branded part.

NOS = New old stock: this is typically applied to out of production parts that were never sold retail. So, they're new, unused, but old.

 

OEM=Original Equipment Manufacture; also sometimes just OE (Original Equipment)

NOS=New Old Stock, as when an eBay seller or bike shop gets ahold of brand new OLD inventory, usually from a dealer that has gone under. For some things that the aftermarket never served or that Yamaha discontinued long ago, NOS can be a lifesaver. What's really funny is when I see "NOS" XJ parts up on eBay for more than you can still get them from Yamaha for. NOS is only worth wads o'cash when the part can't be got anymore, not when it's still available.

 

Thanks for the fast reply and detailed explanation. Now I will be able to sleep better.