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Building Technical Skills: From U-Haul University to the NATM Academy

Date postedJune 12, 2026
Posted By: Ginger Baker-Sanhueza NATM News,

Free training opportunities are one of the many benefits available to members of the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM). Through the NATM Academy, members have access to a growing library of educational content, including select technical courses made possible through a partnership with U-Haul University. 

U-Haul University was developed to train technicians and employees on the systems, components, and maintenance procedures that keep trailers operating safely and efficiently. Through NATM's collaboration with U-Haul, members have access to select technical training courses designed specifically for trailer technicians and industry professionals looking to build and strengthen their skills. 

Before diving into one of the courses offered from NATM’s U-Haul University partnership, it is worth taking a step back and recognizing the larger mission of the NATM Academy. The NATM Academy was developed to provide members with convenient, practical education that supports professional growth across the trailer industry. From leadership and business topics to technical and safety training, the NATM Academy continues to expand its course offerings to meet the needs of members at every level of experience. 

Best of all, the NATM Academy is free to all NATM Members. 

The NATM BRK 2001 – Surge Brake Inspection and Repair course was created to help technicians learn repair and maintenance procedures associated with surge-brake assemblies used on braked trailers. Proper brake inspection and maintenance play a critical role in overall trailer performance and safety, and this course provides step-by-step instruction on common service procedures technicians may encounter in the field. Best of all, this was created by U-Haul University and features examples that will help technicians in their day-to-day jobs working with surge brake systems. 
Learners will receive an overview of procedures including: 

• Coupler slide free-play inspection 
• Coupler slide replacement 
• Master-cylinder pushrod adjustment 
• Carriage arm replacement 
• Breakaway pedal replacement 
• Coupler-slide bushing replacement 
• Surge-brake-housing assembly replacement 

Upon completing the course, learners will be able to: 

• Inspect and replace a coupler slide 
• Adjust a master-cylinder pushrod 
• Replace a carriage arm 
• Replace a breakaway pedal 
• Replace a coupler-slide bushing 
• Replace a surge-brake-housing assembly 

By completing NATM BRK 2001, technicians can strengthen their understanding of surge-brake assembly maintenance and repair procedures while building skills that can be applied directly in day-to-day operations. 

To learn more about the NATM Academy and enroll in courses, visit www.natm.com/academy or contact NATM Programming Director Ginger Baker Sanhueza at Ginger.BakerSanhueza@natm.com. 

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