Heavy Duty - Certification
NARSA Heavy Duty Radiator Technician Certification Program
The International Heat Transfer Association designed a program to test and ultimately certify the repair skills of heavy-duty (HD) radiator technicians as well as the ability of each of their employer’s shops to perform HD radiator repairs. The program consists of a 25-page instruction manual, which is highly detailed in content and fully illustrated, and an accompanying certification test, to be taken by each technician applicant. Once a shop has been NARSA HD certified according to the program guidelines, a shop technician may apply for certification.
The manual is divided into 10 sections: Shop Safety, OSHA Information, Cleaning, General Overhaul, Disassembly Procedures, Bolt-Up Radiators, Overhaul of Solder-Up Radiators, HD Plastic Tank Procedures, Repair Definitions, and List of Necessary Shop Equipment. Designed as an instructional guide for the repair, cleaning, rebuilding or recoring of heavy-duty radiators, the methods and procedures laid-out in the manual have been refined and perfected over more than 50 years. By learning and following the procedures, the work produced by a shop will be as good if not better than work produced by any radiator shop anywhere.
The questions in the certification exam are taken directly from the manual and are designed to assess the repair skills and knowledge of HD radiator repair technicians. In order for a technician to successfully complete NARSA HD repair course, the shop at which the technician is employed must first demonstrate that it meets certain criteria, after which the technician must study the manual, take the exam and submit it back to the association for grading.
NARSA has embarked on this effort to certify HD radiator repair technicians in order to increase the professionalism and technical abilities of those we serve. Perhaps more importantly, however, in recent years many states and local municipalities have passed tough consumer protection legislation mandating that virtually all types of motor vehicle repair shops — including radiator repair shops — employ mechanics that are ASE-certified in their field. In addition, in many instances certified mechanics must complete additional hours of continuing education every year to remain in compliance. NARSA is a strong supporter of ASE certification. However, the organization feels just as strongly that such certification does not necessarily address the specific needs and technical abilities of radiator repair technicians. It is hoped that obtaining NARSA HD Certification will become recognized as the preferred method for meeting these requirements and remaining compliant, where applicable.
Certification for both the shop and its technicians is valid for three years. In order to maintain certification, the technician must make application for and pass additional certification tests every three years. The shop will also be required to reapply for certification every three years, and produce documentation that it still meets the required guidelines to maintain its certification status.
Application for Certification as a NARSA Heavy Duty Radiator Technician
Application for Certification as a NARSA Approved Heavy Duty Radiator Repair Facility
