Accounts payable and accrued expenses (Components of accounts payable and accrued expenses) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Outstanding checks in excess of cash	$ 18,476	$ 25,480
Accounts payable, trade	727,770	387,871
Accrued expenses	271,382	180,039
Product warranties	33,567	32,930
Accrued interest	15,550	26,843
Deferred tax liability	14,564	6,309
Income taxes payable	11,212	2,074
Accrued compensation and benefits	203,671	111,890
Total accounts payable and accrued expenses	$ 1,296,192	$ 773,436