Not sure we are talking about the same issue.
The Plug-It wires I'm referring to would be similar in volume, here are the tools that each is used on;
"Replacement 18-gauge power cord is 13 feet long. Delivered as standard equipment with jigsaws, MFK 700 router, Domino joiner, and sanders (note: 16-guage cord is required for use with TS Plunge Cut saws as well as OF 1010 and OF 1400 Routers)."
So not dramatically different in volume, if I had to guess maybe 2 to 1 up to 4 to 1 at the most. As such the extra expense of dividing the production into 2 different components would greatly outweigh the 20 cent savings in copper.
Generally speaking if the material content of 2 nearly identical components is close (i.e. 20 cents of copper) the savings found by commonizing them is substantial.
I hope this helps clear up where I'm coming from, otherwise we'll just have to agree to disagree - Kevin
P.S. - I know the official word is flexibility, I just don't believe it. Vac hose + 18ga vs Vac hose + 16ga are virtually identical.
Just my personal opinion - people don't have to agree
