Accounts payable and accrued expenses (Components of accounts payable and accrued expenses) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Outstanding checks in excess of cash	$ 23,331	$ 18,012
Accounts payable, trade	715,099	631,732
Accrued expenses	269,628	273,230
Product warranties	31,003	35,818
Accrued interest	13,395	35,618
Deferred tax liability	20,639	1,095
Income taxes payable	9,705	11,235
Accrued compensation and benefits	165,062	186,853
Total accounts payable and accrued expenses	$ 1,247,862	$ 1,193,593