Accounts payable and accrued expenses (Components of accounts payable and accrued expenses) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Outstanding checks in excess of cash	$ 27,068	$ 18,012
Accounts payable, trade	697,366	631,732
Accrued expenses	233,004	273,230
Product warranties	33,260	35,818
Accrued interest	15,962	35,618
Deferred tax liability	9,075	11,235
Income taxes payable	15,256	1,095
Accrued compensation and benefits	157,653	186,853
Total accounts payable and accrued expenses	$ 1,188,644	$ 1,193,593