9:00 AM - 2:30 PM CST
Location: Johnson Mfg Co., 114 Lost Grove Rd, Princeton, IA 52768
Registration ends on 5/5/2025
Our 2025 Heavy-Duty Conference will be hosted by Johnson Manufacturing Co. and held May 15-16, 2025 in the Quad Cities.
Conference Schedule:
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 (Rhythm City Casino & Resort)
4:30 - 6:00 p.m. - Check-In at Rhythm City Casino & Resort (7077 Elmore Avenue Davenport, IA 52807)
7:30 - 8:30 p.m. - Rad Shop Roundtable Conference Room
Thursday, May 15, 2025 (Rhythm City Casino & Resort)
8:15 a.m. - Check-In at Rhythm City Conference Room
9:00 a.m. - Programming Begins
12 p.m. - Lunch
1 p.m. - Programming Continues
5:30 p.m. - Table Tops & Dinner Reception
Friday, May 16, 2025 (Johnson Mfg & John Deere Tours)
9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Factory tours
Lunch Included
Programming:
- "Controlled Atmosphere Furnace Brazing of Aluminum Alloys" (José S. García, Solvay)
- "New Solution to Repairing Plastic/Aluminum Gas Tanks & Overflow Tanks" (Don Meyers, Tech-Bond Solutions)
- Advancements in Diagnostics and Problem Solving (Shaune Anders, Manager Product Support, John Deere Power Systems)
Utilizing intelligent diagnostics to improve onboard and offboard troubleshooting capabilities, using connectivity and telematics to enable faster identification and resolution, as well as incorporating AI into problem solving.
Panel Discussion:
Part of our programming includes a cooling systems panel which will provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the heavy-duty automotive industry, addressing both technical challenges and regulatory pressures that manufacturers must navigate in the near future.
- Automotive Soldering: Leaded vs. Lead-Free
The panel will explore the ongoing debate between leaded and lead-free soldering in automotive manufacturing. Leaded solder has traditionally been preferred for its superior conductivity and reliability, but due to environmental concerns and regulations, lead-free soldering has gained traction. The discussion will cover the impact of both solder types on production processes, long-term reliability of automotive parts, and the environmental benefits and challenges posed by lead-free alternatives.
- Non-Fluxed Radiators: Manufacturing and Performance Differences
What are the differences between non-fluxed radiators and traditional fluxed models? Topics will include manufacturing processes, cost implications, and the performance of non-fluxed radiators in terms of heat dissipation and longevity. Additionally, the conversation will touch on how these differences affect vehicle efficiency and the potential for non-fluxed radiators to meet evolving standards in the automotive industry.
- Tariffs on Automotive Components and Raw Material
This segment will focus on the impact of tariffs on automotive parts and how they affect production costs, supply chains, and the overall automotive market. Experts will discuss the global trade dynamics and the consequences of recent tariff changes on both domestic and international suppliers, highlighting strategies manufacturers can adopt to mitigate the impact on vehicle pricing and profitability.
- Upcoming Emission Regulations
The panel will conclude by examining upcoming emission regulations and their potential effects on automotive design and manufacturing. As stricter standards are being implemented globally, manufacturers must adapt their technologies and production processes to comply with these new requirements. Discussion will cover innovations in emission reduction, the role of electric vehicles, and the challenges faced by manufacturers in meeting these regulations while remaining cost-competitive.
About our host:
Johnson uses its exclusive vacuum casting process that reduces dirt, inclusions, oxidation, and segregation to produce solder billets which are then extruded to create our Tin-Lead, Lead-Free, Tin-Zinc, and Babbitt Solders in addition to many other small run and specialty alloys.
For more than 100 years, Johnson Manufacturing Co. has played a key role in the development of environmentally friendly fluxes, lead-free solders, and specially engineered tools. It all began with Johnson’s Soldering Fluid in 1909, safer then as now, since it contains no free acid. Next came Johnson’s Soldering Paste, still a favorite of many plumbers. Most recently, Johnson acquired the SA Day Manufacturing Company in Buffalo, NY and expanded their line of production fluxes for Copper/Brass Radiators and Tube Mills, while adding the DayRod with DayCoat Technology for Aluminum repair.
Today, Johnson Manufacturing is an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer that provides over 100 different fluxes and alloys to many industries around the world.
More information including programming, hotels, and registration will be available soon. Stay up to date by following @narsnaow on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn as well as checking http://narsa-idea.org !
John Deere Tours:
We’re excited to announce that we will be touring John Deere’s facility as part of our 2025 Spring Conference.
During this tour, you will get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most modern and efficient factories in the world. We will be guided through each stage of the manufacturing process, from the first steel cut to the finished product. See how all the pieces come together on this interesting and informative factory visit.
Our Host Hotel:
Rhythm City Casino Resort is located at 7077 Elmore Avenue, Davenport, Iowa. It includes a casino, salon & spa, and three restaurants. Once you successfully register and pay, you will receive a confirmation email with the hotel booking code. If you need assistance, please contact Linda Skoglund at linda@narsa.org
About Our Keynote Speaker:
Our keynote speaker is author and Attitude-Expert Matt Booth. His presentation is called "Basically Incredible." There's no question that having a great attitude, being able to communicate effectively, taking care of ourselves, and having a plan are all essential ingredients for a great life. But what if we told you that 'basic' doesn't mean 'easy?' We’ve feasted upon the false and fake for so long that we’re empty on the inside. We think quick fixes, not basic success principles, will give us the Pinterest-worthy life we covet online, but as much as Facebook ads and Instagram influencers want to convince us otherwise, an incredible life, incredible relationships, and even an incredible business come from daily, specific actions and small fundamental changes. Matt grew up on a farm in the heartland of America. He lives in Dubuque, Iowa with his lovely wife Joie and their sons Carter and Graham. He received his undergrad at the University of Wisconsin and then graduated with his Master’s Degree in Communication from the University of Dubuque.
Sponsors:
Host:
Platinum Sponsor:
Gold Sponsors:
Silver Sponsors:
Bronze Sponsors:
