Does anybody have experience with part number changes and how they affect product identification and traceability?
We have remaining inventory for a machined part that has an old part number format stamped into it. The part itself did not change in any way other than the part number, so we'd like to continue to sell the inventory if we can. Is there any way to do this without sending the inventory through rework and still meet all necessary product identification & traceability requirements?:confused:

Does anybody have experience with part number changes and how they affect product identification and traceability?
We have remaining inventory for a machined part that has an old part number format stamped into it. The part itself did not change in any way other than the part number, so we'd like to continue to sell the inventory if we can. Is there any way to do this without sending the inventory through rework and still meet all necessary product identification & traceability requirements?:confused:Have you thought about addressing it through your Engineering Change process?

Hi Al,

Could you explain your thoughts a little further?

The problem is we are small and do everything through contract manufacturing. We ordered this part awhile back and still have much of it left. Since the last order, the part and all associated drawings, and our catalog item numbers have been updated through the ECR process. However, now we have inventory left with the old number (no new PO's have been placed with our vendor since these changes) and we are left wondering the easiest way to get the old inventory the door without reworking it with the new part number.

I know there must be something I'm missing, but I can't put my finger on it. :o

Is there some way you could "grandfather" it into the new part numbering system? I mean, have it catalogued under both the old part number and the new part number? Any orders for this part going forward will reference both numbers, you have ECR documentation that this part may be referenced/identified by either/or/both part numbers, you pull the part and use it.

As long as nothing has changed with the actual part itself, there should be a way to use it.

Just a thought....Hope it helps.

Is there some way you could "grandfather" it into the new part numbering system? I mean, have it catalogued under both the old part number and the new part number? Any orders for this part going forward will reference both numbers, you have ECR documentation that this part may be referenced/identified by either/or/both part numbers, you pull the part and use it.

As long as nothing has changed with the actual part itself, there should be a way to use it.

Just a thought....Hope it helps.Basically make it an "alternate part".

Thanks! That does make sense.

I was concerned that there might be issues with the customer calling and asking for one part number (as identified in the catalog) and us sending out another - even thought it's really the same thing for all intents and purposes.

Thanks! That does make sense.

I was concerned that there might be issues with the customer calling and asking for one part number (as identified in the catalog) and us sending out another - even thought it's really the same thing for all intents and purposes.

Just ensure that your customer is aware of the part number change, too. You don't want them to say you sent the wrong part when it's something as simple as a number change.

Simply use a 'deviation' notice to say that, for a quantity of product, you are going to use the old part number instead of whatever is the latest. This deviation should be authorized by the Engineering Mgr or highest level manager (who can take the responsibilty for any problems caused later;))

If the old item is interchangeable with the later one, this shouldn't be a problem to use them up.

If the customer would notice (and it's a specific one) have them add their approvals to the deviation. It sounds like it's a one time deal. You should allow yourself a deviation process anyways, for controlling future situations when things aren't truely 'to spec' but can be tolerated....