Said It Here

How to find replacement parts for discontinued hardware

Big-box home improvement stores and original manufacturers often no longer stock components for older or discontinued items like rusted casement hinges and legacy appliances. This forces homeowners to hunt for compatible alternatives online without confidence in the fit, leaving them stuck trying to source obscure parts to avoid paying for entirely new installations.

Overview
People affected44 accounts across 8 forums
Workarounds found65 items attempted
Community agreement66 total upvotes

What the numbers show

Counted from the threads quoted below. How we count

  • Most of it landed at once — the busiest month was September 2026, with 41 people.
  • This comes up 13.2× more often in r/appliancerepair than across the site as a whole.

What people tried

Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.

65 items+ Contribute

Found another way around this?

Share your steps and trade-offs so fellow engineers don't have to reinvent the wheel. No account required.

  1. 1
    Searching online links and community lists for specialty hardware products
    Did this help you?
  2. 2
    Searching appliance parts websites for discontinued models
    Did this help you?
  3. 3
    Buying pre-programmed replacement units from specialized third-party services like Flagship One
    Did this help you?
  4. 4
    Asking if someone can repaint plain tiles to match
    Did this help you?
  5. 5
    visiting a local hardware store with the hose or faucet head for sizing
    Did this help you?
  6. 6
    buying an entire replacement set that includes the hosing and quick connect
    Did this help you?
  7. 7
    Replacing the entire exterior box cover
    Did this help you?
  8. 8
    Leaving the cover as it is with one missing pin
    Did this help you?
  9. 9
    Buying used or working parts on eBay
    Did this help you?
  10. 10
    Pulling parts out of dead or discarded units
    Did this help you?
  11. 11
    Sending electronic control boards in for specialized third-party repairs
    Did this help you?
  12. 12
    Remove the vent to salvage and rebuild it, focusing on repairing the rotted trim pieces.
    Did this help you?
  13. 13
    Buying universal thermocouples from local home improvement stores like Home Depot
    Did this help you?
  14. 14
    Ordering universal parts from online supply sites like supplyhouse.com
    Did this help you?
  15. 15
    Searching specialty manufacturers or lesser-known brands that still produce the finish
    Did this help you?
  16. 16
    searching ebay and other reselling sites
    Did this help you?
  17. 17
    considering using a different model's conversion kit
    Did this help you?
  18. 18
    Buying a used replacement machine from a charity shop
    Did this help you?
  19. 19
    robbing a txv from a new coil
    Did this help you?
  20. 20
    using low tier brand suppliers up north
    Did this help you?
  21. 21
    switching to TXV systems
    Did this help you?
  22. 22
    Searching online marketplaces or plumbing supply houses for vintage parts
    Did this help you?
  23. 23
    Using trim adapter kits and specialized removal tools
    Did this help you?
  24. 24
    Limping the equipment along while searching for more cost-effective options
    Did this help you?
  25. 25
    Considering sourcing parts from a general gasket and seal shop
    Did this help you?
  26. 26
    fabricate something
    Did this help you?
  27. 27
    replace the flue stack entirely
    Did this help you?
  28. 28
    Taking the old handle off and going to the store to find a matching one physically
    Did this help you?
  29. 29
    Searching online for models matching the specific cartridge
    Did this help you?
  30. 30
    Buying aftermarket brands like MTC, DEA, or Anchor
    Did this help you?
  31. 31
    Searching through odd-ball sellers on eBay or dusty warehouse websites
    Did this help you?
  32. 32
    Considering fabricating custom replacement mounts
    Did this help you?
  33. 33
    Contact a local shower door company for alternative parts.
    Did this help you?
  34. 34
    picking up a slightly newer Whirlpool direct drive
    Did this help you?
  35. 35
    Searching for used parts on online marketplaces like eBay
    Did this help you?
  36. 36
    Cleaning the component and checking set screws
    Did this help you?
  37. 37
    Using parts lookup websites like searspartsdirect.com to look up part numbers by make and model.
    Did this help you?
  38. 38
    Asking online communities if newer parts can be made to work with minor modifications.
    Did this help you?
  39. 39
    Turning the unit off for the night
    Did this help you?
  40. 40
    Searching online to diagnose the issue
    Did this help you?
  41. 41
    Looking for functional alternatives that serve the same purpose
    Did this help you?
  42. 42
    Using a different type of window lock
    Did this help you?
  43. 43
    Ordering parts online as needed using unit model and serial numbers
    Did this help you?
  44. 44
    Keeping a limited stock of high-wear items like capacitors and contactors on hand
    Did this help you?
  45. 45
    Setting up scheduled maintenance plans and bills of materials
    Did this help you?
  46. 46
    Measure the existing gasket to determine the size and buy a universal gasket online.
    Did this help you?
  47. 47
    Searching online using visual matching and product descriptions
    Did this help you?
  48. 48
    Asking online communities to confirm compatibility
    Did this help you?
  49. 49
    Searching in junkyards
    Did this help you?
  50. 50
    Using RTV silicone to seal leaks
    Did this help you?
  51. 51
    asking online communities for sizing advice
    Did this help you?
  52. 52
    searching for alternative compatible parts
    Did this help you?
  53. 53
    Buying a differently sized operator arm and a new track
    Did this help you?
  54. 54
    Searching online for discontinued vintage parts
    Did this help you?
  55. 55
    Searching using Google image search for answers
    Did this help you?
  56. 56
    Hiring handymen who either delay the work indefinitely or suggest makeshift solutions
    Did this help you?
  57. 57
    looking in repair manuals
    Did this help you?
  58. 58
    having a friend forward packages internationally
    Did this help you?
  59. 59
    pulling out rotting insulation to inspect components
    Did this help you?
  60. 60
    Looking up the thermostat by model number to search for new-old-stock or compatible parts
    Did this help you?
  61. 61
    Making minor modifications with similar replacement thermostats
    Did this help you?
  62. 62
    Calling a professional for repair
    Did this help you?
  63. 63
    Replacing the entire shower curtain rod system
    Did this help you?
  64. 64
    Modifying an updated or incorrect part to fit, such as cutting off pieces with side cutters.
    Did this help you?
  65. 65
    Using the manufacturer's updated substitute part even if it looks different.
    Did this help you?
Tried another approach not listed above?+ Share your workaround ↑

In their words

Unedited, grouped by where they were said, most upvoted first within each place, each linked to the thread it came from.

r/HomeMaintenance8 people · September 2026

“These are vertically hinged casement windows and this one hinge has rusted through so it no longer opens properly. I can’t find anything that would work from big box hardware stores…”source ↗

PenaeusQueen · r/HomeMaintenance · 5 upvotes

“Have this rotting louver vent and need to replace. Not sure if this has to be custom ordered or how it’s secured behind the brick.”source ↗

lil_bird666 · r/HomeMaintenance · 3 upvotes

“The screw gear at the end with a handle has become stripped, and then no longer catches.”source ↗

“Went to Home Depot there was only 9 1/2 armed operator.”source ↗

“Do I buy the 9 1/2 and buy a new track? Or is there some where I can find very similar if not the same piece?”source ↗

GeoAv3 · r/HomeMaintenance · 2 upvotes

“Having a hell of a time finding a replacement. Don't want to replace the shower curtain rod system if I can help it.”source ↗

Ok-Bumblebee-5285 · r/HomeMaintenance · 2 upvotes

“My bathroom fan needs to be replaced but apparently Kenmore doesn't make bathroom fans anymore”source ↗

“And I can not find a replacement at least not one I am confident about.”source ↗

“I really dont want to have to have a new one installed.”source ↗

kakitheginger77 · r/HomeMaintenance · 1 upvotes

“I am having a hard time with determining the model, but I can tell it’s a Broan/Nutone exhaust fan.”source ↗

Popensquat01 · r/HomeMaintenance · 1 upvotes

“I tried to find exact replacement and unfortunately couldn’t (it’s more than 30 years old). The gate valve replacement Available at big box is shorter than this one(2 1/2” vs 2.07”) what do you recommend?”source ↗

Bornin70s · r/HomeMaintenance · 1 upvotes

“I can’t seem to find a place to buy the pin only.”source ↗

Traditional_Area6416 · r/HomeMaintenance
r/AskMechanics2 people · September 2026

“We are having trouble identifying these leaky canalisations which tie into the air intake system.”source ↗

Fun-Raise-8367 · r/AskMechanics · 3 upvotes

“Im 99.15287 % certain you are not going to find those anywhere nowadays.”source ↗

Ok-Championship3642 · r/AskMechanics · 1 upvotes
r/HomeImprovement7 people · September 2026

“In the process 24 tiles were destroyed. We are now 3 tiles short.”source ↗

“We don’t know how to fix the problem.”source ↗

“Do we think we could find someone to repaint plain tiles? We are desperate!”source ↗

kansasqueen143 · r/HomeImprovement · 3 upvotes

“It is in urgent need of replacing the interlocking weatherstripping, but the available parts from Andersen officially only work for the current generation or for the previous models starting 1982.”source ↗

“Andersen customer service tells me those won’t work for my door but I can’t figure out why. Before I order and potentially waste my money, does anyone know if (even with some minor modifications), any of these should work”source ↗

mschlemming · r/HomeImprovement · 3 upvotes

“I cannot find a replacement anywhere.”source ↗

Justice1521 · r/HomeImprovement · 2 upvotes

“What is this window trim plastic, and how do I order it?”source ↗

“I live in a small remote town, and can’t entice a real contractor with such a small job.”source ↗

“What is this plastic called, how do I install it, and how do I order it?”source ↗

HoneyBear4Lyfe · r/HomeImprovement · 2 upvotes

“I’m looking for a brushed nickel kitchen faucet with pull out sprayer. Everything seems to be “brushed stainless” anymore. I want the warmer undertone that brushed nickel has to offer.”source ↗

“Anyone know of a brand that still offers this finish in a kitchen faucet?”source ↗

mowensby95 · r/HomeImprovement · 1 upvotes

“does the replacement faucet/handle need to be specific to this? I've tried doing searches for what would be considered 'compatible' but keep getting conflicting results.”source ↗

“The original one I had before isn't manufactured anymore (early 2000's), and I'm curious if the external cover/handles are a bit more universal for this?”source ↗

rushaz · r/HomeImprovement · 1 upvotes

“when something breaks (HVAC, water heater, washer/dryer, whatever) and you want to fix it yourself, how do you actually find the right manual and the right part? I've had situations where the model number is worn off, or I find a part online but I'm not 100% sure it fits.”source ↗

Flimsy_Budget_1297 · r/HomeImprovement · 1 upvotes
r/hvacadvice10 people · September 2026 – November 2026

“I am thinkign if the AC fails at a time when its supposed to be working the hardest, I want to make sure I have the correct replacement on hand because a lot of time is wasted when the AC repair man tries to order it and it takes weeks.”source ↗

“We cannot have the AC down for that long, it impacts the business big time. So I want to just keep a few and was wondering where would be a good place where I could source this kind of stuff from?”source ↗

Prettynails_gal · r/hvacadvice · 3 upvotes

“And can't find replacement parts or anything on it”source ↗

Famous-Tie8960 · r/hvacadvice · 3 upvotes

“TXV is recommended but I’ve had one supplier mostly stop stocking piston coils (so they say) because of that.”source ↗

Fragrant_Reserve7624 · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“I took it out and cleaned it real good. I don’t see anything bent. The set screw is on good. It sends this sound through all the ductwork and it’s pretty noisy.”source ↗

BradCastleburry · r/hvacadvice · 2 upvotes

“I've been trying to find proper OEM replacement ECM motors for the air handlers but can't find any that spin the correct direction.”source ↗

“Have they just stopped making motors that spin this way?”source ↗

kspires98 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“If someone would link a compatible thermocouple and not the Ashley hearth dvag unit that don't ship to my area, that would be great.”source ↗

Rough_Community_1439 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“How are you sizing pistons for 454b? We were going to try one the other day because of circumstances but ended up robbing a txv from a new coil.”source ↗

Carorack · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“I get a parts quote and it’s 31,000$CAD. Not that cool!”source ↗

“The gaskets for each side of the wheel are 2000+ each. Has anyone been able to source something like that from a general gasket and seal shop?”source ↗

Ancient_Substance152 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Our living area is soaking wet and it’s going to rain again tonight. I cannot find a replacement part online and my local HVAC company was no help.”source ↗

Time-Bid4248 · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“There a place to buy just the ecm for this thing? It’s a 21 year old furnace so everything on ebay is pretty old….”source ↗

BradCastleburry · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes

“Yesterday I was walking though the basement, and noticed a puddle near the tankless hot water heater/boiler... I was dismayed to find that it was the boiler dripping”source ↗

“Any ideas on what this rusty part is and if I can get one?”source ↗

“is there any way to get parts for this? If so, what would this fitting be called? Looking in the repair manuals, I'm not seeing a detailed parts list/diagram”source ↗

AlexAndMcB · r/hvacadvice · 1 upvotes
r/appliancerepair9 people · September 2026 – October 2026

“Even important stuff like control boards I have had to send in for repairs on as recent as ~2015ish units because they are no longer made, none are available used on ebay, and even calling thermador/bosch they just say "they are discontinued".”source ↗

“parts for many models almost non existent unless used on Ebay or pulled out of a dead unit.”source ↗

RedEyes619 · r/appliancerepair · 2 upvotes

“Turns out that the conversion kit for this model has been discontinued as well as the replacement part for the original discontinuation.”source ↗

“I'm already out $300 for the new stove that has been mostly converted to LP. I don't have the extra money to hire a professional... and I definitely don't have money to buy another new stove.”source ↗

Equal_Web_9856 · r/appliancerepair · 1 upvotes

“Can someone direct me to maybe a rebuild kit for the transmission and/or individual pieces to make my own rebuild kit?”source ↗

MrCollins79 · r/appliancerepair · 1 upvotes

“That seal for the tub is no longer available and the aftermarket ones don’t last.”source ↗

Fomocosho · r/appliancerepair · 1 upvotes

“I figured replacing the gasket would be a good place to start, but I have no idea where to find one for this freezer.”source ↗

“Hoping someone here can point me in the right direction for finding a replacement gasket.”source ↗

Professional-Clue963 · r/appliancerepair · 1 upvotes

“Can anyone find this part online? Does the updated one not have the gear?”source ↗

navar941 · r/appliancerepair · 1 upvotes

“I recently replaced a spray arm that subbed to one without the gear in it.”source ↗

heavymetalpaul · r/appliancerepair · 1 upvotes

“Glass screen broke on washing machine door I ordered the wrong parts. I thought it was the right part now I’m back to square one going to return The wrong part but need to order the right part. Can anyone help me?”source ↗

we_oo · r/appliancerepair

“Of course, I cannot find the entire part, but I'm wondering if there is any way I could try to just replace the probe part and see if that might fix the problem.”source ↗

cpapbabes · r/appliancerepair
r/homeowners2 people · September 2026

“This is on a basement storm window from the 60's. Window installs from the outside and this part on the inside turns against a small peg on the frame and pulls the window in tight. Where can I get these?”source ↗

BalanceSweaty1594 · r/homeowners · 2 upvotes

“You are probably going to have a hard time finding an exact match.”source ↗

Ok-Active-8321 · r/homeowners · 1 upvotes
r/MechanicAdvice2 people · September 2026

“Problem is this is a discontinued part. The dealership is refusing to replace it due to the only available parts being a non-OEM part.”source ↗

Mental_Scheme10 · r/MechanicAdvice · 1 upvotes

“I am in need of new engine mounts, especially the front. I am having a hell of a time trying to find anything thats halfway decent”source ↗

“Toyota discontinued the parts (probably years ago), so OEM is not an option. Pretty much my only options are MTC, DEA, Anchor, or whatever else odd-ball brand ebay has. Im getting pretty desperate, but just looking for suggestions.”source ↗

Chlo_Schmo · r/MechanicAdvice · 1 upvotes
r/Plumbing4 people · September 2026

“I recently bought a used countertop dishwasher (comfee CDC22P1BBB) off of facebook marketplace and of course it’s missing pieces.”source ↗

“I’m trying to see it’s something I can just get by itself or if I have to buy a whole new quick connect with all the hosing and everything because that all I can seem to find.”source ↗

“Sorry if it’s a dumb question. But could really use some help.”source ↗

Different-Jeweler875 · r/Plumbing · 1 upvotes

“I’m trying to find a replacement and get rid of this acrylic handle set.”source ↗

“I believe it’s the 1960 models but honestly that’s just a guess.”source ↗

Reilly176 · r/Plumbing · 1 upvotes

“I posted already about needing a thermostaic valve (maybe part number 20150923) but I also have a Shower cartridge in the same system that needs replaced.”source ↗

SnooConfections3321 · r/Plumbing · 1 upvotes

“The one on the bottom has completely eroded over time and no longer useable. I’ve searched the internet for the same screw but can’t find any and I’m thinking now I might have to buy a completely new shower cubicle.”source ↗

ProfessorIll153 · r/Plumbing · 1 upvotes

Where this came up

People with this problem also raised