Community spreadsheet for parts numbers

[Johnnyb]

I was reading this thread: https://classicbroncos.com/forums/threads/upper-lower-radiator-hoses-for-explorer-swap.325189/ , along with numerous others and I found myself dreaming about a spreadsheet that we could all contribute to which would contain common part numbers for things like upper and lower hoses, belts, brake pads and other things for parts combinations that we all use.
I don't know if this forum is capable of that functionality, but it sure would come in handy if we need to acquire a replacement on the road in a place like Ely Nevada and Napa Carquest or Checker are the only resources available.

Just dreamin'
-JB

 

[bigmuddy]

Fantastic Idea and I bet a number of us would contribute. Could be extremely valuable.

 

[DirtDonk]

Yes, great idea. And when I first read the title, the first thing I thought of was radiator hoses!

 

[phred]

Great idea

 

[4xfun]

I would suggest keeping the master list in a spreadsheet, and printing a PDF as it is updated. The PDF allows more people to use it, but you could post both. Some anti-virus/malware software is suspicious of spreadsheets and links, which is another reason for a pdf file. I have seen a couple of formats on other forums. The two common ones are the part name with a list of manufacturers'/suppliers including the original part number below the part name or a list where the part name is followed by different part numbers & suppliers like:

Spark Plug
Autolite XX-XX
Champion XX-XX
Denso XX-xx

or

Spark Plug Autolite XX-XX Champion XX-XX Denso XX-xx

The biggest issue is that there are variations between the 66 and 76 models and part numbers are going to vary between year models and engines. The initial list would take some time, but the upkeep would be pretty minimal. Someone is going to have to host the location where the pdf is kept and there needs to be multiple copies of the spreadsheet in case something happens to the computer with the master list. The moderators can chime in on the best location for the file location and it would make a great sticky thread or go into the technical section. You could let people post to the tread so the others could review and check the numbers posted or document if certain models have a different part number.

 

[raleigh_bronco]

A more practical means would be to host the data on Google drive, which would allow a controlled list of editors ”permission” to add to the sheet - updating vendor part numbers - and the like.

 

[Johnnyb]

Hi @4xfun
HTML, CSS and various other web formatting code is already compatible with tables and spreadsheets, in fact it's part of the core functionality of web design.
If I were doing it, I would set it up where members could add but only moderators could edit or remove.
In that way we could all easily contribute but anybody who gets out of line or contributes incorrect information could be checked. I think our EB community on classicbroncos.com is pretty respectful and self-policing.
I agree however, being able to export to PDF would be a great idea so we could all take a printout on the road with us for those times when we're walking into a Napa and might not have cell service.
Alas, however, it is not my call or my site it's just an idea.

Thanks,
JB

 

[Johnnyb]

A more practical means would be to host the data on Google drive, which would allow a controlled list of editors ”permission” to add to the sheet - updating vendor part numbers - and the like.

Google docs certainly has the functionality which would maintain this list. The problem of course would be limiting contribution. You would want to encourage members of classicbroncos.com to contribute while limiting the general public from spamming the spreadsheet.
I also considered Nextcloud, however the problem again is membership.
If you get too anal about who can contribute, the project would die without any significant content and if you open it up too wide you're going to end up with ads for penis enlargement before you know it!

-JB

 

[Johnnyb]

We could just insert a table (like so) and every contributor would simply copy/paste the entire table as they added a line:

Use/Description	NAPA	CarQuest	Checker (O'Reilly)	OEM
Explorer serpentine -AC Delete				Gates K060825

If it works out, we ask to make sticky (in Tech forum)

-JB

 

[FordBronc]

Great idea and to support that even futher, if you reach out to me in a PM I will mail you a data stick with the Master Parts and illustrations Catalog in PDF. There are 2 sections. There are some other members on here that have got it from me already. I just ask that once you down load/copy it, please send the data stick back.

The files are to big to upload here as attachment's.

215 mb
369 mb