[valarauca1]

Replacement parts are normally made in the same production run as Production parts. You just project the number of replacement/warrenty claims, and build 10% over that.

Cuts the cost of dyes/run times. This is also why replacement parts become next to impossible to find 10-15 years down the line. If they are available they'll become outrageously expensive due to another company purchasing the rights to make spare parts.

Source: Worked as a military contract and sourced engine parts from Level3 Communication.

[brudgers]

That's one way to do it. The scale of ThinkPad keyboards may be susceptible to alternative approaches since there's a product line aspect, i.e. many products with interchangeable parts produced over many years.

[MichaelGG]

Engine parts from Level3? Like generators?

[valarauca1]

Nope transmissions. Level3 purchased a large number of John Deer patients from the 1950's and 60's and produces surplus tank parts.

Well technically its a manufacturing company with their controlling interests owned by Level3. Its very steady predictable revenue. Literally an investor centric board member's wet dream.