Early machines were hand-made, and even similar parts from supposedly identical machines were not entirely identical. In many cases, the parts had to be carefully hand-fitted to work together.
With the development of more precise manufacturing techniques, it became possible to build a number of parts which are close enough to being identical that any particular part could be replaced by the same part from a different machine.
Interchangable parts where invented in 1798 by Eli Whitney
Eli Whitney made the invention of interchangable parts in the 1700's
the interchangeable parts where invented in 1798.
He invented the cotton gin and interchangable parts. He invented the cotton gin and interchangable parts.
Depends on what parts you are trying to interchange. However, a very large percentage of the parts are interchangable. For the most part yes.
No
Eli Whitney
no...the parts in a 720 series are not interchangable with the hardbodies. no...the parts in a 720 series are not interchangable with the hardbodies.
Reduces cost and required inventory.
Yes
Eli Whitney
engine head