OEM Ball Joints

[izack98]

I was in one of the local Delica shops the other day to pick up a part. I asked about lower ball joints for my 97 L400 as I want to replace mine soon.
He recommended using the OEM Mitsubishi ball joints as he said the after market brands don't last as long (only about 3 years - as opposed to 10-12 for the OEM Mitsu ones). I was told his price for the Mitsu ones was about $300.00 for the set.

So...I went online and began a search. I found the part numbers and googled several sources from several Canadian and American sites. I found OEM Mitsu ball joints that ranged in price from $55.00 CAD (amayama) to $85.00 CAD (various US sites) + shipping.

I emailed a parts supplier on the island who lists ball joints on their site ($99.00) but does not list the brand. Here is my email question to them:
"Hi, I am looking for lower ball joints for my 1997 L400 Super Exceed.
I see you stock them.
Can you tell me if they are OEM Mitsubishi parts?
If not, what brand are they?"

Here is the response I received:
"They are OEM, `555` make. Thanks"

This leaves me somewhat confused. Either I don't understand the proper term for 'OEM' - or they don't. I searched '555' and they are made by Sankei which is a large after market parts manufacturer. They don't appear to manufacture parts for Mitsubishi.

Has anyone used 'Sankei 555' suspension parts - specifically lower ball joints? Can you offer an opinion as to the quality compared to the OEM Mitsu ones?
I have read varying reviews about 'Febest' suspension parts.
I don't mind spending the money for OEM Mitsu parts. Just wondering if I need to.