48--GUIDE,VALVE STEM
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE NAVY.NAVSUP.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT.NAVSUP WSS MECHANICSBURG.NAVSUP WEAPON SYSTEMS SUPPORT MECH · Response deadline: Thu, 03 Dec 2026
What the government is buying
The Department of the Navy, through NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Mechanicsburg, is soliciting offers for valve stem guides (National Stock Number reference: 4820). This falls under broader metal valve and fitting manufacturing, specifically components used in mechanical systems where precise alignment and durability are critical requirements.
Valve stem guides are precision-machined components typically used in engines, pumps, or fluid control systems to maintain proper stem alignment, reduce friction, and ensure reliable sealing performance. In naval applications, these parts must often meet stringent material specifications, dimensional tolerances, and performance standards given the demanding operational environments aboard ships and submarines. The procurement is likely for replacement parts supporting existing weapon systems or propulsion machinery.
As this is a supply-type acquisition for a specific manufactured item, prospective bidders should expect technical requirements covering material composition (often brass, bronze, steel, or iron alloys), surface finish, dimensional specifications, and possibly military or industry performance standards. The actual technical data package and acceptance criteria—see the solicitation.
Key facts
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of the Navy, NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support Mechanicsburg |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | N0010426QNE38 |
| NAICS | 332919 — Other Metal Valve and Pipe Fitting Manufacturing |
| Set-aside | None (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | December 3, 2026, 4:30 PM EDT |
| Place of performance | Not specified in notice — see the solicitation |
Who can bid
This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside program, meaning all responsible sources—large businesses, small businesses, and nontraditional defense contractors alike—may submit offers.
Small business participation remains viable and encouraged. Under NAICS 332919, the Small Business Administration size standard is typically 750 employees. Companies with capabilities in precision machining, metalworking, or valve component manufacturing should evaluate whether their facilities, equipment, and quality systems can meet anticipated naval requirements.
Particular attention should go to:
- Past performance references for similar precision-machined components
- Quality certifications (ISO 9001, AS9100, or NADCAP may strengthen competitiveness)
- Manufacturing equipment capacity for the specified materials and tolerances
- Existing Department of Defense contracting experience, including familiarity with MIL-spec standards and the Defense Logistics Agency supply chain
How to put together a competitive bid
Given the precision-manufacturing nature of this requirement and open competition against potentially larger or more experienced defense suppliers:
Technical compliance: Obtain and scrutinize the technical data package from the solicitation. Valve stem guides for naval use typically involve tight tolerances, specific alloy compositions, and surface treatments. Nonconforming technical proposals risk immediate rejection regardless of price.
Quality assurance plan: Develop a comprehensive plan covering incoming material inspection, in-process dimensional verification, final inspection protocols, and traceability documentation. NAVSUP WSS places heavy emphasis on quality history for mechanical components.
Pricing strategy: Analyze your true manufacturing costs including material volatility risk, machine time, and inspection overhead. Open competition means aggressive pricing from established suppliers, but underpricing risks performance failures on quality or delivery.
Source of supply: Identify certified material sources early. Specialty alloys or forgings may have extended lead times that affect your delivery commitment.
Packaging and preservation: Naval supply items require specific military preservation and packaging standards (MIL-STD-2073) to prevent corrosion during storage. Include these costs in your proposal.
Past performance: Document comparable contracts, emphasizing on-time delivery and quality acceptance rates. NAVSUP WSS will evaluate this rigorously.
Next steps
- Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number N0010426QNE38. The notice was posted October 26, 2026.
- Download all attachments, particularly technical specifications, drawings, and delivery requirements.
- Note the firm deadline: December 3, 2026, at 4:30 PM Eastern Time. SAM.gov technical submission rules apply—do not rely on last-minute upload.
- Submit questions through the SAM.gov Q&A function well before the deadline if technical requirements need clarification.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →