[Kevin in NJ]

Several things to consider.

First off Ford saved every dime. What are the odds that parts that were off enough he would not use them on the line but decide the dealer could make them work?

Now what if the part was so bad it would not work?
Do you think the guys in the shop might not keep it around to give to the new guy?
What are the odds that part got shoved to the back of the shelf till Joe Restorer thought he hit the jack pot at an auction?

The other problem was after production quality control would not have been as good. Ford also may have contracted replacement parts which also may lower quality.

I check all parts for specs before I use them.