I have a small business in which I would like to reproduce some parts for motorcycles. The motorcycles are models that are over 20 years old. The parts that I want to reproduce are now discontinued, although occasionally a new part may show up on eBay. I approached the manufacturer of these motorcycles to try and gain "their" permission to remanufacturer these parts. I was told by their legal department that someone would get back to me. This was almost 6 months ago and I have not heard back from them.
My question is will I be infringing on their design or patent (although the parts I will be making are not patented)? Some of their parts bear their corporate name which I will not reproduce on my replacement part. Is there a timeframe in which replacement parts can/cannot be made? I have tried to google for an answer, but the best answer I found was on this forum:
Not quite the same situation as mine, the OEM manufacturer in my case does not supply an alternative part.
I have another part that I would make which is a replacement for a tool that is still in production and parts a readily available. What are the consequences in this situation? Thanks for all your help.
My question is will I be infringing on their design or patent (although the parts I will be making are not patented)? Some of their parts bear their corporate name which I will not reproduce on my replacement part. Is there a timeframe in which replacement parts can/cannot be made? I have tried to google for an answer, but the best answer I found was on this forum:
Not quite the same situation as mine, the OEM manufacturer in my case does not supply an alternative part.
I have another part that I would make which is a replacement for a tool that is still in production and parts a readily available. What are the consequences in this situation? Thanks for all your help.