Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to Gardner Denver
Net income (loss) attributable to Gardner Denver	$ 277,563	$ 172,962	$ (165,185)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net	(31,249)	(65,291)	21,229
Unrecognized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net	434	(683)	(250)
Foreign currency (loss) gain on investment in foreign subsidiaries	(1,783)	40,414	1,663
Pension and other postretirement prior service cost and gain or loss, net	(11,541)	4,471	(12,535)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(44,139)	(21,089)	10,107
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Gardner Denver	233,424	151,873	(155,078)
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	1,979	1,992	1,886
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net	314	(324)	753
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	314	(324)	753
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	2,293	1,668	2,639
Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$ 235,717	$ 153,541	$ (152,439)