Association of Diesel Specialists

Worldwide Recognition
The Association of Diesel Specialists (ADS), founded in 1956, is an international trade association with members from around the globe. To members, ADS means worldwide recognition by diesel owners and operators. To members’ customers, the Association signifies a network of professionals dedicated to the achievement of high-caliber service on diesel fuel injection, governor and turbocharger systems. Members include service shops, manufacturers and distributors who work together and share their expertise in order to provide diesel users with the best possible service, equipment and parts.

High-Quality Standards
ADS members are known throughout the industry for the high technical standards they maintain. ADS Service Members have prepared and adopted uniform repair standards in an effort to improve communication and understanding of the industry, particularly between diesel specialists and their customers.

Online Forum
A member resource that allows members to share technical knowledge by exchangeing information, posting questions, shareing knowledge and experiences with each other to become more effective in the workplace. On the members Online Forum home page members may view the archives. Non members may sign up for a FREE 30-day trial. Sign-up now!

Nationwide Warranty
The ADS Nationwide Warranty assures mobile equipment operators that repairs needed under warranty from an ADS shop will be honored at participating member shops anywhere in the U.S., Canada or Mexico. Customers can call to find the location and phone number of the nearest shop participating in the Nationwide Warranty.

Identification Code
A special ADS identification code is assigned to member service shops. Shops can choose to place their seal on the fuel injection, governor or turbocharger units serviced to provides easy verification of warranty status. A list of ADS identification codes can be found in the ADS Directory.

Equipment and Tool Sales
The ADS Master Pump Kit checks the accuracy of diesel fuel injection calibration equipment. The Master Pump Kit lets shop owners keep expensive calibration machines and their related accessories within tolerance. ADS also offers for sale to members, and non-members, the tools needed to work on the injectors used on the Ford PowerStroke Diesel Engine. Members receive considerable discounts when ordering the tool kit. Contact for more information.

Education
ADS offers educational programs designed to enhance technical expertise and business knowledge. Programs include the International Convention, technical and regional events and On-Engine Training Courses. View the current calendar of events.

International Convention & Tradeshow
Held each summer, the ADS International Convention & Tradeshow attracts delegates from around the world. The program includes: industry leaders and analysts addressing current trends and technology; Tradeshow featuring state-of-the-art products and service aids in the industry; and special seminars put on by manufacturer members.

TechEvents/Regional Meetings
ADS conducts “TechEvents” and regional meetings in Canada and Latin America. These “closer-to-home” meetings are designed to keep members up-to-date on the latest technical developments and procedures.

On-Engine Training Courses
ADS On-Engine Training Courses give technicians the opportunity to work with popular applications in fuel injection pump, injector and turbocharger removal, reinstallation and timing. Troubleshooting basics are also covered. View currently schedule courses.

TechSmart Program
The ADS TechSmart Program is a combind effort between the ADS Technical Education Committee and specifically selected schools offering diesel programs. Through their joint efforts they created a program to ensure certain priorities are met to provide a better skilled entry-level technician while also addressing continuing education needs of the current labor force within the diesel industry.

ADS/Ortner Foundation
The Association of Diesel Specialists / Henry and Esther Ortner Educational Foundation was established in 1994 following receipt of a gift from the estate of the late Mrs. Esther Ortner. Mrs. Ortner was the widow of Henry Ortner Jr., the first ADS Technical Director. The Foundation’s purpose is to benefit educational programs for the Association of Diesel Specialists and for the diesel fuel injection industry. The Ortner Foundation also offers annual scholarships. Students can apply online.

Business Management
ADS recognizes that, in addition to technical expertise, good business management skills are necessary to run an efficient, profitable business. The Association provides programs and services designed to help members manage successful business operations.

Surveys / Financial Analysis
ADS conducts studies to advise members on industry trends. Surveys on such topics as a shop’s “cost of doing business” and "computer usage" give participants valuable information for comparison in operating their business. Conducted annually, ADS produces a confidential survey designed to help service members analyze their financial performance. Results of this survey are only shared with those who participate in the survey.

Parts Finder
ADS Parts Finder provides a listing of obsolescent or surplus parts for sale by participating service members. The listing is a source for difficult-to-find parts, as well as an outlet to improve inventory turn. Listings are online and updated by the member themselves. Please contact the listed seller for part information. Search or list parts online now.

Forerunners
For young professionals of ADS member companies, the ADS Forerunners offers an opportunity to develop peer group relationships within the industry, build business and leadership skills, and learn more about the industry. To join the Forerunners click here.

Communication / Publications
ADS provides channels of communication for members through its printed newsletter, a weekly e-newsletter, technical and business bulletins, an annual Directory and the Association's website. Nozzle Chatter, the ADS member publication together with a weekly e-mail News@ADS, serve as a source for details on Association programs and services, as well as for useful information on current technology and helpful management practices. The annual ADS Directory is read by more than 120,000 diesel customers around the world. Additionally, ADS has cooperative relationships with related organizations such as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) to keep members apprised of current standardization developments.

Identification
The ADS logo, signifying superior quality service, is respected throughout the industry. Members may utilize the "ADS Member Logo" for their own business promotion and purchase signs, uniform patches and more.

Technical Information
The ADS Executive Director (contact) provides technical information through regular articles in Nozzle Chatter and/or News@ADS, technical bulletins, one-on-one consultation and routine correspondence.

Manufacturer Liaison
Manufacturers can depend on ADS Service Members to offer specialized service to dealers and users, resulting in greater acceptance of the manufacturers’ products. The ADS Executive Director (contact) also provides information and support to the manufacturing segment of the industry.

Car Rental Discounts
ADS is contracted with Avis and Hertz to give members discounts on car rentals.