From January to February 1998, leadtimes lengthened significantly for all materials except hydraulic cylinders, which may be facing a shortage in supply, as their leadtimes increased by 24.8% in 1997. At the same time, pumps, special fasteners, and valves appeared to meet the demand, since leadtimes consistently dropped in 1997 — even in light of increased investment in capital equipment. LEADTIMES

Weeks Change, %

Feb 1998 1996 1997 1998*

Gears 7.8 -7.6 -1.9 -5.6

Pumps 5.3 -5 -5 -1.9

Special fasteners 6.7 -4.7 -3.4 0

Valves 4.5 -0.4 -7 -2.7

Hydraulic cylinders 4.9 -16.5 24.8 -0.5

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