How to Differentiate Bitzer Genuine Parts from Counterfeit/Fake Parts

If you want to save on repair costs when servicing Bitzer compressors, you can opt for high-quality Bitzer compressor replacement parts. However, it is crucial to ensure the high quality of these Bitzer replacement parts. If low-quality replacement parts are used, the repaired compressor will fail again in a very short time, and in severe cases, it could completely damage the compressor.

Our partner, a semi-hermetic compressor refurbishing and repair workshop, received a Bitzer compressor from a client with complaints of abnormal noise, followed by an electrical failure after some time. We would like to add some additional information—this compressor had been “overhauled” by an unknown workshop.
So, during disassembly, we found damage on the housing (on each cylinder) and deep stepped marks—this was the main cause of the noise.
The Bitzer compressor pistons and connecting rods used in the previous overhaul by this workshop were 100% counterfeit, low-quality products.

Let us point out some important signs:

1. Different shapes and marks on the pistons:

2. Piston pin spacer washer:

Bitzer product—TheBitzer compressor piston has two spacer washers for proper positioning on the connecting rod.
Fake product—Only one spacer washer because there is no clearance for the second one.

3. Circlip:

Bitzer product—The Bitzer compressor circlip size is correct and fits perfectly in the groove.
Fake product—As shown in the picture, the circlip is almost out. The damage caused by a poorly fitted circlip is the deep stepped marks.

4. Piston rings:

Bitzer product—Thickness, width, and hardness are different. We have two piston rings—one is a compression ring, and the second is a scraper/oil control ring. Bitzer marks the top side of the ring as “TOP.”
Fake product—Thicker, wider, and harder. Here, both piston rings are identical. The fake piston rings are marked “STD” for standard.