Invest in a set of metric dial calipers and school yourself on learning exact dimensions of critical bike parts or frame interfaces. This will help you to narrow your search for that specific item you are seeking.

Be patient! Tracking down the correct part sometimes takes years!

Also invest in a little micro grease gun like the Pedro’s. These permit you to apply just the right amount of grease where it is needed without waste. The resulting assemblies are more consistently problem free in my experience. I also love my Chinese high powered LED headlight which helps me continue to see what I’m working on in low light conditions.