NATDA Magazine May/Jun 2020 | Page 39

advanced information on selecting the right towing equipment - anything that throws people into a tailspin of confusion. It’s going to be a lot more technical when referring to which products to select. It’s aimed at technicians who have just started in this line of work, apprentices or anyone who’s learning on the job, but it’s also good for seasoned installers just to sharpen their understanding of deeper installation philosophy. NATDA: With everything going on with the current pandemic, do you think these classes can help dealerships who may be hiring around this time? Long: These two courses should be gold for them. If you have zero experience in this business, you will come out of this course with the confidence to start working on people’s vehicles. Basic Towing Systems Specialist sponsored by B&W Trailer Hitches The “Basic Towing Systems Specialist” training courses are opportunities for technicians and service advisors to gain a basic level of knowledge and aptitude in various mechanical and electrical aspects of the trailer hitch and towing industry. Basic Towing Systems Specialist (Mechanical) The morning session will cover the mechanical aspects of towing installation, focusing on: • Vehicle tow capacity advising • Trailer hitch type and classification • Over-the-axle towing equipment overview • Weight distribution hitch types and mechanics • Ball mounts, hitch balls, pintle hooks, multiple adapters and towing equipment accessories • Specialty hardware types and proper usage • Installation best practices and techniques Basic Towing Systems Specialist (Electrical) The afternoon session will cover the electrical aspects of towing installation, focusing on: • 12-volt vehicle electrical systems (2-wire, 3-wire, and pulse width modulation) for trailer functions • Wiring plug types, functions, features and wiring codes • Electric brake controller types and applications • Wiring installation best practices and techniques • Troubleshooting common electrical problems on vehicle/trailer combinations • Professional orientation guidelines for educating the final user on proper operation of their towing equipment Both classes will include “hands-on” training, allowing participants to demonstrate their competency in the subjects covered, followed by a written examination to earn a certificate of completion. Students who complete and pass both classes will receive a certificate of completion and will be grandfathered into future certification requirements as a “Towing Systems Specialist” facilitated by Long and his business Connected Correctly. If you or any of your technicians/employees have questions about the courses themselves, feel free to contact Connected Correctly, LLC at: (479) 757-0077. Are you or your technician interested in attending this year’s technical training? Reserve your seat today by calling 727-360-0304 or email Andria Gibbon, CEM at andria@natda.org. www.natda.org 39 NATDA Magazine NATDA Magazine www.natda.org 39