“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 23: Dolphin
If you’re involved in the cooling systems industry, you likely know the name Dolphin. Ahead of NARSA’s 2023 International Tour in the Middle East, we sit down with Riddhish Kapadia of the Dolphin Group to learn more about the manufacturer’s history and its extensive footprint across the world. In this episode, we also learn about…
Adapting in 2023
In the early 80s, copper and brass automotive radiators were still dominating the majority of work in radiator shops. This trend started to shift by the mid to late 80s as plastic and aluminum radiators became original equipment for the majority of the automotive market. Also diverting business from the radiator shops was inexpensive complete…
The Link Between the Manufacturer & the Repair Shop
Starting off a new calendar year gives us a chance to do some cleaning up, and for many businesses such as ours, it gives us a chance to reflect on what things went right and those which could stand improvement. With 2023 underway, we started to see a changing of the guard with supply chains…
January/February 2023 Cooling Journal
We ring in 2023 with the January/February issue of the Cooling Journal. This month, we feature the talented team at South Texas Radiator. See how two cooling systems experts have branched out on their own in our Member Spotlight. Plus, learn what NARSA/IDEA’s Board of Directors look forward to in 2023.
Another meeting season completed
This year, we had a renewed excitement in the beginning of the year by being able to plan and facilitate in-person events. This year has renewed the enthusiasm of members, the Board of Directors, and the home office. We have had three hugely successful meetings this year. We started off at Don Hart’s Radiator in…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 22: “A Cooling Systems Christmas Carol”
To wrap up 2022, Solder & Soot’s Mark Taylor and Bobby Duran have curated a Cooling Systems Christmas Carol. In this special episode, our hosts reflect on the past, present, and future of NARSA/IDEA and what big events impacted our members.
The Heart of Our Association
At the heart of this association, we each stand to gain one idea, one connection, and one opportunity for our businesses, and feeling the vibe about the room further reinforced what the board of directors has been pushing so strongly over the last 4 years.
November/December 2022 Cooling Journal
The final issue of the Cooling Journal of 2022 is here! This month, we learn all about Chesapeake Cooling Solutions of Maryland, a new business that’s growing in success in part thanks to NARSA/IDEA. We also see highlights from 2022’s AAPEX Show and our Member Appreciation Reception.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 21: Pat O’Connor
In this episode of “Solder & Soot,” we sit down with cooling systems industry expert Pat O’Connor, Vice President of Sales at Johnson Manufacturing. Pat will be inducted into NARSA’s Cooling Systems Hall of Fame in 2023. Without a doubt, NARSA would not be what it is today without Pat’s influence. In addition to hearing…
Hello from Scotland!
No matter the level of sophistication of yours or someone else’s business, I can assure you there is always something to learn that will make a difference in your business. New ideas are created by exposing yourself to the ideas of others. The greatest compliment to another individual or company is when you take an…
Don’t Miss NARSA Members at AAPEX!
We can’t wait to connect with all our members, friends, and colleagues next week at AAPEX/SEMA in Las Vegas! You won’t want to miss NARSA/IDEA’s booth along with many of our members’ booths on the second floor of the Venetian in NARSA’s section, also known as the Mobile Heat Transfer/Heating/Air Conditioning section.
Big Shoes to Fill
Not a NARSA event goes by that someone doesn’t pull me aside for a quick anecdote about a kind gesture that my grandad did when they were first starting in the radiator business or a story of how my dad was tasked with giving the blessing at each event he attended. These two men have…
September/October 2022 Cooling Journal
We take you to the United Kingdom in the latest issue of the Cooling Journal following the 2022 International Tour. Hear what NARSA members had to say about this special visit. Plus, we learn about the history of Laramie Radiator, which is celebrating 75 years in business this year!
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 20: L&M Radiator
Minnesota-based L&M Radiator is well-known in the cooling systems industry, but our listeners may not know the company’s origins and how it can be traced back to WWII. In this episode of Solder & Soot, we sit down with David “Sully” Sullender to learn what sets MESABI® products apart.
Another Chapter Coming to an End
The Board of Directors decided on a different approach to start the search for my replacement. In the past, the search was kept behind the scenes. Sometimes head hunters were used to identify candidates, but now the Board is convinced that a person from within our industry is best suited to help manage the affairs…
President’s Farewell Message
So this is it… my last editorial as NARSA/IDEA President. One thing I can say is that in no way did it go as expected. As NARSA/IDEA’s first and hopefully only pandemic President, my experience was in many ways unique. What should have been two years full of meetings with members and visiting shops and…
Troubleshooting Overloaded or Failed Filters
Since DPF cleaning facilities make money by servicing DOC, DPF, and SCR units, how far do they go into telling the shop that dropped it off or the filter owner what the filter condition was? Or that a further look into the engine is necessary to keep from having more aftertreatment issues quickly?
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 19: Roppel Industries
In the cooling systems industry, the Roppel family of Kentucky is well known. In this episode of “Solder & Soot,” we sit down with father and son Tom and Corey Roppel to learn about the early days of the family business and how Roppel Industries has transformed over the past 75 years. This episode isn’t…
Career Opportunity
NARSA/IDEA is looking for a person to be the next Executive Director of the association. NARSA/IDEA will provide the new Executive Director a proven framework for their success. Processes and procedures have been outlined and used for building a successful association which is growing and prospering. Financial compensation is commensurate with experience and skills.
July/August 2022 Cooling Journal
The latest issue of the Cooling Journal spotlights one of NARSA/IDEA’s longtime members who is celebrating a major milestone: 75 years! Learn how Roppel Industries has adapted over the years as a family business and how NARSA/IDEA has played a role in their success. Plus, the NARSA International Tour heads to the United Kingdom!
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 18: Luis Duran
We dive into the dynamics of running a family business with Bobby’s father Luis Duran in this episode of “Solder & Soot.” Learn how Luis first got involved in the cooling systems industry, his service in the Air Force, and how he ran two companies in New Jersey and Puerto Rico. You’ll also hear from…
Honoring Our Industry’s Experts: David Bienvenu
I recently had the honor to preside over the induction of one of the most admired members of the NARSA/IDEA community. David Bienvenu has been a fixture of the NARSA community for more than 30 years now. I first met David at a NARSA event at his shop in 2009. It was one of the…
Thermal Management Expo August 30 & 31 in Cleveland
Thermal Management Expo, is the only free-to-attend exhibition and conference dedicated to the thermal management sector, taking place on August 30-31 at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
David Bienvenu Inducted into Hall of Fame
Longtime NARSA member David Bienvenu was inducted into the Cooling Systems Service Hall of Fame on Friday, May 6 in Houston, Texas during the 2022 Spring Conference. There is no higher honor in our industry than to be inducted into the Cooling Systems Service Hall of Fame. Among the speakers honoring David included former NARSA…
May/June 2022 Cooling Journal
We share all of the highlights from the NARSA/IDEA 2022 Spring Conference in Texas in this latest issue of the Cooling Journal! Hear from members about the new ideas they learned from the meeting, their favorite presentations, and other special moments. Plus, we include a member spotlight on new member DPF Alternatives based in Colorado.
NARSA/IDEA 2022 Spring Conference Wraps Up in Texas
It was a jam-packed 2 days of learning and networking at Don Hart’s Radiator in Waller and at the Houston CityPlace Marriott at Springwoods Village for the 2022 Spring Conference in Texas. More than 120 NARSA/IDEA members from across the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America were in attendance.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 17: BGR Radiator
On this episode of “Solder & Soot,” we learn the ins and outs of on-site generator service with the Davis brothers of BGR Radiator in Connecticut. Hear how the business has changed over the years, where BGR really shines, and what Jamie and Nick Davis say is one of their biggest challenges in the cooling…
Maximizing Your Bandwidth in NARSA/IDEA
We live in an age where we are more connected than ever and yet paradoxically, it is also easier than ever to exist in cultural and professional silos where everyone thinks like us. While this may be comforting, it usually does not promote learning new ideas. It is precisely that exchange with others who may…
How NARSA/IDEA Helps with Your Return on Investment (ROI)
NARSA/IDEA is still the only trade association that represents engine heat transfer for transportation and stationary engines along with the diesel particulate filter systems industries. Our members are service/repair facilities, distributors and manufacturers. The board still believes in creating the one idea, the one opportunity, and the one connection which will allow your business to…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 16: West End Radiators
We learn all about Canada’s West End Radiators and the Feeleus family in this episode of “Solder & Soot.” Wayne Feeleus walks us through the company’s 60+ years of history as a cooling systems service shop and growth as a manufacturer. Hear what Feeleus says drives his success. Plus, we also find out more about…
March/April 2022 Cooling Journal
In this March/April 2022 issue of the Cooling Journal, we visit BGR Radiator of Plainfield, Connecticut. Learn how the Davis brothers are expanding their company’s footprint. Plus, get a preview of our upcoming NARSA/IDEA 2022 Spring Conference in Houston including speaker information and our technical program descriptions.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 15: American Radiator
In this episode of “Solder & Soot,” we sit down with Joel Christianson of American Radiator which is based in Iowa. As we all know, the only constant thing in life is change. And Joel’s story is a great example of learning how to adapt in this industry and how to diversify. In addition to learning more…
Diesel Engine Regeneration Types & Failures
The diesel engine has seen many changes over the last 20+ years. One of the most significant changes was to the diesel emissions system in 2007 which was necessary to meet new Environmental Protection Agency mandates for diesel exhaust. When the EPA mandated these new lower levels of pollutants in the exhaust, engine manufacturers had…
Welcome to 2022! Did you learn anything?
2021 left us with a lot of questions: With the fragility of our supply chain exposed, will there be any long term changes? Has partnering with countries who have a different governing philosophy made us vulnerable? Will small businesses who are struggling with their labor forces ever fully recover?
Becoming a Podcaster
I have been a podcast addict for at least eight years now and thought it would be an interesting platform for our niche audience. For those of you not familiar with a podcast, it is on-demand radio. And since podcasts are produced digitally and distributed on the internet, there are much lower barriers to entry than…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 14: Frank Finger Part 2
We couldn’t fit all of Frank Finger’s wisdom into one episode, so we continue the conversation with the legend himself in Part 2. Expanding your business can be tricky, and you need the right strategy. In this episode, we hear from Frank about his move into distribution and how he developed the sales business. Frank…
Important Notice about Cooling Journal Distribution
Beginning May 2022, physical copies of the Cooling Journal bi-monthly magazine will only be mailed to NARSA/IDEA members in good standing.
January/February 2022 Cooling Journal
In the first Cooling Journal issue of 2022, we visit Empire Radiator Service based in New York. Read about how the company has grown over the years and their plans for the new year. Plus, read about the new goals and lessons learned from NARSA/IDEA’s Board of Directors.
January 2022 Newsletter
NARSA/IDEA wishes all of its members a Happy New Year! In the first newsletter of 2022, we look ahead at some upcoming industry events that could help boost your business. Our news section also includes a new business transitioning, how members are helping tornado victims, and several retirement announcements.
Turbos, EGRs & Charge Air Coolers: How Do They Affect DPFs?
By being able to speak intelligently about the diesel exhaust system, your people can be a resource for your customers. In some businesses, the technician cleaning the diesel particulate filters is one of the least experienced people in your shop. To help them better understand the process, let’s do a simple review of how the…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 13: Frank Finger
We are kicking off Season 2 of “Solder & Soot: A NARSA/IDEA Podcast” with a pioneer in the cooling systems world: Frank Finger, whose career spans nearly 80 years. Mr. Frank is not only a dear friend to both Bobby Duran and Mark Taylor, but he’s also a wealth of information to everyone in NARSA/IDEA.…
Rocky Mount Radiator Connects with High School Students
Students in North Carolina recently got to learn more about the cooling systems industry thanks to Rocky Mount Radiator & A/C. NARSA/IDEA member Chuck Braswell is on the Board of CITI High School, which stands for Center for Industry, Technology, and Innovation, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. There is a public school initiative that helps…
2021: Year in Review
This is the final magazine of 2021, and it is appropriate to recap the past year and give account of where we have been, what we have learned and where we are going. It is also necessary to thank all who have played a part in moving this association forward. Almost everyone has heard or…
How NARSA/IDEA Connects Fathers & Sons
Our President Bobby Duran recently had the privilege of hosting two NARSA/IDEA members at his plant in Puerto Rico. They spent the day touring the plant. Read more about how their friendships have grown thanks to their fathers and through NARSA/IDEA.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 12: Empire Radiator Service
In this latest episode of “Solder & Soot,” we sit down with three generations of Schelkuns (Mike, Jim, and Andrew) who run Empire Radiator Service. We dive into the past, present, and future plans of the Rochester, New York-based company and dig into what it’s really like working with your family.
November/December 2021 Cooling Journal
Christmas has come early! The final Cooling Journal issue of 2021 features Mike’s Radiators of Zimbabwe. Read all about the company’s history and the challenges of doing business in Africa. Plus, we learn about a high school program that connected students with a NARSA member. Could these be our future radiator technicians? You won’t want…
November 2021 Newsletter
It’s been a busy month NARSA/IDEA! Several members recently exhibited at AAPEX & SEMA 21 in Las Vegas. Even though some of the people we saw have been on Zoom calls with us over the past two years, there is no substitute for personal contact and the energy that is exchanged between people who have…
Webinar: “Find, Attract & Retain Talented People”
With an ultra competitive job market, how does your company rate when prospective employees are looking for a new job? Do you know who you are competing with for new hires, and what the competition is offering new employees? One of the most crucial aspects of growing a service business is employee acquisition and retention.…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 11: Mike’s Radiators
We learn all about life in Zimbabwe with Mike Marques and Darren Maboreke of Mike’s Radiators in this episode of “Solder & Soot.” They are new members to NARSA/IDEA, but they’re both experienced in the world of cooling systems. From recruiting employees to finding materials, we discuss the challenges of operating a radiator shop in…
Technician Shortage is a Priority
The skilled blue collar worker shortage is not new, but it should be a very large concern for any service business who wants to stay relevant for the future. Baby Boomers are retiring at a fast pace and leaving a void of qualified technicians/craftsmen in every occupation. Many baby boomers who worked in the trades…
The Kids Are Still Alright
At a meeting a few months ago with my management team, I asked why they thought we were having trouble finding people to fill our production positions. I constantly heard about the unemployment benefits being the main reason. While everyone had various reasons for staying home, I realized that those that did want to work…
September/October 2021 Cooling Journal
This might be our most jam-packed issue yet! We learn more about Scotland-based G & M Radiator in this latest The Cooling Journal. Read all about the company’s history plus some exciting news about the future. We also have several technical articles including why engine oils are crucial to the diesel emissions industry and the…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 10: Jeff Thorpe (G & M Radiator)
This episode we jump across the pond to speak with Jeff Thorpe of G & M Radiator based in Scotland. G & M’s roots go back all the way to 1919. Not only do we find out about cooling systems industry history overseas, but we learn more about the skilled labor shortage challenges the UK…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 09: All About Coolants (Old World Industries)
Did you know that 40% of engine downtime is coolant-related? This month on “Solder & Soot,” we dive into the science of coolants with Joe Long of Old World Industries. Joe has more than 40 years of experience in the trucking industry and is definitely an expert in his field. Not only does Joe answer…
2021 Fall Conference Postponed to Spring 2022
After discussing the status of the event at length, the NARSA/IDEA Board of Directors voted to postpone the event until the spring of 2022. We believe that several extenuating circumstances have led our members to be apprehensive about attending the upcoming meeting. These difficulties, combined with the increased travel protocols for some of our overseas…
Weathering the Pandemic Together
NARSA/IDEA has weathered the COVID storm with you, which since the founding of NARSA in 1954 has probably been the most serious threat to the viability of your association. The Board of Directors had the foresight to plan for an economic atmosphere where we could sustain a financial downturn. I am proud to report the…
It’s the End of the Supply Chain As We Know it (And I Feel Fine)
Not a day goes by when I do not read cataclysmic stories on how the supply chain is completely broken. From massive shipping delays to shortages of microchips, the supply chain up and down the line has been dramatically affected. I speak with members every day who tell me stories of unreliable shipping and long…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 08: Jamie Irvine (The Heavy-Duty Parts Report)
We discuss current industry trends with Jamie Irvine of The Heavy-Duty Parts Report podcast. Jamie has worked in the heavy-duty parts industry since 1998 and is currently a Sales and Marketing Consultant. Why should businesses focus on service? How can companies eliminate waste and inefficiency? Jamie breaks down how you can succeed against your competition in the…
July/August 2021 Cooling Journal
In this latest issue of The Cooling Journal, we shine the spotlight on longtime NARSA member David Bienvenu of Radiator Service Co based in Louisiana. You can also read more on what you can expect at our in-person 2021 Fall Conference in Grapevine, Texas.
Member Spotlight: TitanX
TitanX’s history involves several different companies. Its roots go back to 1895 when JW Thorell, a Swedish blacksmith, started his own business in Linköping. Then, in 1914, the Gabrielson Car Parts Company opened in Jamestown, New York. Another plant was founded in 1953 in Mjällby, Sweden. Those three plants were eventually acquired by Blackstone, then…
Open Seats for NARSA/IDEA Board of Directors
Nominations are now open for candidates seeking election to the Board of Directors of NARSA/IDEA – The International Heat Transfer and Diesel Emissions Association. The Board is responsible for setting policy, reviewing programs, developing projects and approving budgets for sustaining the overall financial health of the organization. The Board provides for the direction of staff…
July 2021 Newsletter
It is a new dawn for the United States as we get back to enjoying some of the things we have missed for the last year and a half. We have weathered the storm and hopefully the rest of the world is right behind us. With summer comes an increase in travel, vacations, products and…
2022 Photo Calendar Contest Open
We are excited to announce a photo calendar for 2022 featuring NARSA/IDEA members from ALL over the world! It’s your time to shine! Email your submissions to linda@narsa.org by August 15 to be considered.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 07: David Bienvenu (Radiator Service Co., Inc.)
This week, we chat with cooling systems veteran David Bienvenu of Radiator Service Co., who is based in Houma, Louisiana. He’s the go-to guy many of our NARSA/IDEA members call when they have a question. But unlike some, David didn’t grow up in the radiator business. Learn how he got into the industry, the most…
Why Social Media is Vital to Our Industry
The greatest advantage to social media has been our ability to communicate and engage with cooling systems and emission service facilities around the world. This year, we have added members in South America, Africa, and France. Social media is the tool which has given us an opportunity to expand our footprint beyond U.S. borders. Canada…
A Change is Gonna Come
As I’m sure many of our readers find themselves doing, I often ponder the future of my business. Over the last two years, we have formalized our planning for the future with quarterly, yearly, three year and ten year plans. This process aligned our team in our goals for the future. We stand at the…
May/June 2021 Cooling Journal
We recap NARSA/IDEA’s Spring 2021 Virtual Conference in the May/June 2021 issue of The Cooling Journal. See how our members from all over the world connected and interacted with our speakers and experts through technical presentations and panel discussions. We also learn more about about TitanX’s history in our Member Spotlight.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 06: Chuck & Bryan Braswell (Rocky Mount Radiator & AC)
Chuck and Bryan Braswell join us from North Carolina at Rocky Mount Radiator & A/C, which is a fourth-generation family-owned business, and their involvement with NARSA/IDEA runs deep as well. Chuck is a former NARSA/IDEA President and Bryan currently serves as a Board member. Learn how NARSA/IDEA has contributed to their success, about their future…
“Marketing Your DPF Cleaning Business When the Competition Endorses Only One Type Of Cleaning Method” Panel Discussion
Prepare your business’s marketing strategy to compete with large DPF cleaning companies who endorse only one type of cleaning as being effective. Perhaps your company offers multiple types of cleaning or maybe you only have the original bake and blow equipment. Hear from three industry experts as to the approach they follow when marketing their…
Webinar: “Futurenomics: The Economic Snapshot You Need to See Today”
How does the current economy impact your business? Through this presentation, you’ll understand what changes in international trade mean for the cooling systems and emissions industries and gain a valuable understanding of today’s economy to improve profits and safeguard your business’ bottom line.
Webinar: “DPF Failure Analysis”
Learn how to identify different types of DPF failures and what causes the condition. If your customer has issues with other engine components, learn how to be the expert by having the expertise to advise the customer they have other issues upstream of the DPF and DOC.
“On-site Generator Repair Opportunities and Challenges” Panel Discussion
On-site generator radiator repair has been an additional profit center for several companies in our industry. What does it take to be proficient at on-site repairs? Our diverse panel includes radiator business owners who discuss the opportunities and challenges of performing radiator repair on site.
Webinar: “Proper Procedures for Welding Together an Aluminum Oil Cooler Core”
This presentation presented by SKL includes insight into proper preparations and procedures for assembly of aluminum components in your shop.
Webinar: “Leadership in Adversity”
What does it take to be an exceptional leader during challenging times? Learn how emotional intelligence enables real leadership and deep connections with each other.
May 2021 Newsletter
The first quarter of 2021 is completed, and typically everyone in the cooling system business is eagerly anticipating a change in the weather. NARSA/IDEA is looking forward to our upcoming Spring 2021 Virtual Conference featuring a range of speakers, technical presentations, and panel discussions. Learn more about our diverse lineup in our latest newsletter.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 05: Economist Dr. Mary Kelly
How has COVID-19 impacted the global supply chain? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Mary Kelly, a renowned economist, author, public speaker, and professor. Hear how Dr. Kelly describes the current state of the economy and what business owners need to know about what could happen next.
Are Business Meetings a Waste of Time?
What I learned late in life was meetings actually increased our productivity and most importantly improved the employee and customer experience. How can so many businesses and managers of companies be so far off without realizing the detriment of bad meetings?
The Cemeteries are Filled with Indispensable People
The pandemic has shown us that people are adaptable and can adjust to world changing events. Letting go and empowering people may be difficult at first, but the long-term effects are really what being in business is all about. Working together as a team has transformed our organization. The less I’m needed, the more successful…
March/April 2021 Cooling Journal
In the March/April 2021 cover story, we learn the origin story of Diesel Emissions Service and how DES owner Steve Hoke’s business philosophy impacts his companies. This issue also includes several technical articles on typical Shell & Tube heat exchangers, Aftertreatment 101 and a guide to turning Plastic Tanks to All-Metal.
Webinar: Fitting Identification (Part 1)
Heavy Duty cooling system repair requires properly identifying fittings. It is recommended to test certain heat exchangers with high pressure nitrogen. In order to test at 300 psi, it is necessary to have fittings that will seal the cooler’s original fitting set up. Identifying the fitting that will be needed for testing will be covered…
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 04: Diesel Emissions Service
In Episode 4, we talk with Steve Hoke of Diesel Emissions Service. Hoke’s empire has grown to include manufacturing and distributing diesel particulate filter accessories and parts. Hear how his business philosophy focuses on relationships and how he’s helping educate other members within NARSA/IDEA.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 03: Joe McGovern: “King of Niche Products”
In Episode 3 of “Solder & Soot,” we sit down with Joe McGovern whose career spanned more than 40 years in the radiator business. Hear from Joe about his experience traveling throughout the country in his RV, his success in a niche market, and how NARSA played a major role in his career.
Webinar: Repeatable DPF Cleaning Ensuring Quality
How can you get verifiable DPF cleanings regardless of the brand of machine you’re using? During this session led by DES Engineering & UL Shop Manager Russ Tuckerman, you’ll learn the best steps to have a repeatable DPF cleaning program no matter what type of brand of cleaning equipment you have.
Webinar: Plastic Tank Radiator Conversion
Very often plastic tank failures can be related to poor designs or a very strenuous application that causes premature failure or the new radiator and parts are not available for servicing your customer’s needs. Whether you have an aluminum or copper and brass radiator core, tank fabrication practices are the same. During this presentation, you…
March 2021 Newsletter
Brutal winter storms impacted millions of people across the United States. Learn how NARSA/IDEA members are dealing with the aftermath of that recent severe winter weather. Plus, see new products our members have recently released.
A Vision for 2021
Whether your business is down or it is booming, one thing is for sure; It is necessary to set the direction for your company at the beginning of the year. If your business is slow, now is the time to think about your vision for your company and how you can turn your vision into…
My Investment in NARSA/IDEA
What is your investment worth? This question led me to a conundrum that I had experienced recently. A former member reached out to the home office with a very specific question that only a few people in the industry would know.
January/February 2021 Cooling Journal
The first Cooling Journal magazine of 2021 has arrived! In this issue, we dig into the history of Don Harts Radiator in Texas, whose ties to the industry go back 100 years! Plus, we also have technical articles including a guide to measuring radiator cores accurately and how oscilloscopes are used in the heavy-duty market.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 02: Don Hart Radiator
In our second episode, we sit down with Don Hart of Don Hart Radiator in Texas. Hart’s ties in the industry actually go back more than 100 years. Hart discusses what he’s learned from his mistakes and the role NARSA/IDEA has played in the success of his business.
Webinar: Aftertreatment 101 (Part 2)
The discussion continues in Part 2 of Aftertreatment 101 where you will learn more about engine maintenance in relationship DPF maintenance and failures. Why is it important to be proactive? Attendees will also dive into cleaning machines types and why there is no one size fits all.
Webinar: Measure that Radiator Core Error Free (Part 2)
In Part 2 “Measure that Radiator Core Error Free!”, we explore how to properly count fins per inch in serpentine and flat fin radiator cores. Attendees will also learn the method for counting tubes in a radiator core without actually counting each tube and a continuation of ordering the correct headers either for a solder…
Member Spotlight: Service Radiator
Kentucky’s Service Radiator discusses family, a declining coal industry, and navigating the future of the cooling systems industry in this NARSA member Spotlight feature.
“Solder & Soot” Podcast Episode 01
NARSA/IDEA is proud to introduce our new podcast Solder & Soot. In our series premiere, hosts Mark Taylor and Bobby Duran discuss their career paths, how they began working with one another, and how they became involved with NARSA/IDEA.
2020 in Review
NARSA/IDEA has been impacted just like a lot of other businesses. All of our in-person events this year were canceled and future events are on hold to see what the beginning of 2021 looks like. This doesn’t mean we don’t have reasons to give thanks.
Coming Out as a Stronger Association
While a picture is worth a thousand words and I thoroughly enjoy talking shop with fellow members, the most interesting tales to me are the backstories of how people started their careers and arrived at where they are today. We are fortunate to have business owners from remarkably diverse backgrounds in our industry. Since there…
November/December 2020 Cooling Journal
This final issue of The Cooling Journal of the year includes a special member spotlight on a Kentucky family-owned business that has overcome several challenges. Inside, you’ll also find technical articles on DPF Bung Identification and Aftertreatment 101.
Webinar: Measure that Radiator Core Error Free (Part 1)
When ordering cores, mistakes can cost the service shop, the manufacturer, and the customer time and money. Learn how to do it correctly the first time with NARSA/IDEA! Executive Director Mark Taylor will explain the ins and outs of radiator core measuring along with proper terminology.
Webinar: Aftertreatment 101 (Part 1)
How do aftertreatment systems work? In Part 1 of “Aftertreatment 101,” this class led by Diesel Emissions Service Lead Trainer Steven “Jr” Stratton will cover the entire aftertreatment system, including the reason why it exists and what needs to be done for maintenance to keep it working correctly.
How NARSA/IDEA Has Evolved
Our Executive Director Mark Taylor looks back on his early days in NARSA and reflects on how the association has changed and adapted over the past 30 years.
United Kingdom to ban new gas and diesel cars by 2030
The United Kingdom has announced it will ban the sale of new cars that only run on fossil fuels by 2030. The sale of hybrid-electric vehicles, however, will be allowed until 2035.