Accounts payable and accrued expenses (Components of accounts payable and accrued expenses) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Outstanding checks in excess of cash	$ 14,057	$ 25,480
Accounts payable, trade	729,034	387,871
Accrued expenses	244,929	180,039
Product warranties	33,674	32,930
Accrued interest	36,542	26,843
Deferred tax liability	14,255	6,309
Income taxes payable	5,308	2,074
Accrued compensation and benefits	183,992	111,890
Total accounts payable and accrued expenses	$ 1,261,791	$ 773,436