Accounts payable and accrued expenses (Components of accounts payable and accrued expenses) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Outstanding checks in excess of cash	$ 18,012	$ 25,480
Accounts payable, trade	631,732	387,871
Accrued expenses	273,230	180,039
Product warranties	35,818	32,930
Accrued interest	35,618	26,843
Deferred tax liability	11,235	6,309
Taxes Payable, Current	1,095	2,074
Accrued compensation and benefits	186,853	111,890
Total accounts payable and accrued expenses	$ 1,193,593	$ 773,436