2017-18 AcademicCatalog - 20
automotive technology (AT) AT 106 (2 credits) Automotive Service Fundamentals This course presents an overview of the automotive industry, including an introduction to the automobile and its systems. Jobs in the automotive service field are covered as are shop work and service information and how to find it. Electronic information systems Mitchell 1 and ALLDATA are utilized. Safety in the auto shop, including the proper use of basic hand and common power tools, is demonstrated. Environmental protection is taught, including recycling and the proper use and approved disposal methods of common automotive shop chemicals are discussed. Demonstrations and hands-on training in common automotive shop practices, such as tube flaring and thread construction and repair. Fasteners, including torque to yield are thoroughly covered. Measurement systems, USC and metric, are discussed, including hands-on training using all common automotive precision measurement tools like micrometers, dial indicators, and torque wrenches. The theory and servicing of automotive rolling bearings are covered; wheel bearings are emphasized. AT 111 (4 credits) Internal Combustion Engine Service This course covers the basic theory, design, and operating fundamentals of spark ignition piston engines. Extensive mechanical testing and diagnostic procedures are demonstrated, including compression and vacuum testing utilizing wave form analysis with lab scopes. Power balance, including both intrusive and non-intrusive are demonstrated. Running and snap-throttle compression testing are featured. Methods to check valve timing on pushrod and overhead cam engines are demonstrated. Engine lubrication systems and automotive lubricants are studied; diagnostic and test procedures are performed. Engine cooling systems, theory, and standard service procedures are also included. Machining of engine components and restoring of all tolerances are covered. Cylinder head servicing is performed, and the three-angle cut method is used. Complete disassembly, all precession measurements, component servicing, resealing and reassembly on actual engines takes place. Prerequisite: AT 106 AT 116 (3 credits) Chassis Service/Steering and Suspension The basic theory and operating principles of automotive suspension and steering systems are studied; service, repair and diagnostic procedures are featured. Tire and wheel service and computer balancing are performed by students. The Hunter Road Force wheel balancer and vibration solver, Model 9700 is featured. Even the widest tires mounted on the newest custom wheels will be no problem when learning to use the Hunter Model TS3500 tire changer. The safe and proper method of airbag module handling is taught. Wheel alignment principles are covered, including both the simple basic maintenance wheel alignment and the more complicated diagnostic wheel alignment. Complex alignment factors such as tire scrub radius, included angle and steering axis inclination, is covered in depth. Handson tire and wheel servicing, pre-alignment inspections, and wheel alignment measurements are taken on live vehicles. 20 * Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology AT 156 (3 credits) Automotive Brake Systems Modern automotive brake systems and their operating principles are studied and standard repair and service procedures are performed. Drum, disc/drum, and fourwheel disc systems are featured. Power-assist systems and parking brake systems are included. An introduction to the theory and servicing of antilock brake systems, including first generation Bosch type and the newest non-integral systems, are covered. Trouble code retrieval and onboard diagnostics using scan tools is featured. AT 161 (4 credits) Automotive Electrical/Electronic Principles The theory of electricity-including Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's Law, series and parallel circuits, AC and DC current flow- is studied. Basic test meter procedures are featured, and solid state devices, integrated circuits, and on-board microcomputers are explained. Automotive wiring and common automotive accessory systems are studied, and servicing and repair procedures are performed. Automotive batteries, their construction, theory of operation, and standard service procedures are also included. Handson extensive electrical system service is performed using digital volt ohm meters and automotive lab scopes. The PDI DVOM, the Fluke 98 Series II, Vetronix Master Tech, and the cutting-edge Vetronix MTS 5100/5200 lab/ignition scopes are all featured. Low resolution amp clamps from Fluke and Vetronix allows students to experience the latest diagnostics using the latest amp-ramping diagnostic procedures. New material has been incorporated into the electrical and fuel and emissions courses after the instructors attended drive ability training/seminars hosted by such nationally recognized "gurus" as Jim Linder, Linder Technical Services, Indianapolis; Bill Fulton, Ohio; Jerry Truglia, New York; Dan Marrinucci, Motor Magazine; and Mac Vanden Brink, Michigan. AT 166 (4 credits) Engine Electrical/Electronic Principles Cranking circuits and starter motors, charging systems, alternators and voltage regulators, and ignition systems (DIS & EI, including C.O.P./coil on plug) are studied. Simulators are featured to help students better understand system operation. Construction, theory of operation, standard service procedures, and system malfunction diagnosis are covered using the latest test equipment; the new Vetronix MTS 5100/5200 lab scope/engine analyzers, and the Fluke 98 series II is featured. Hands-on comprehensive testing procedures are performed on live vehicles. One of the major goals of this course is for students to gain skills in problem solving through the use of on-car testing and diagnostic procedures. This course culminates with each student performing comprehensive tests on the engine mechanical condition, battery, cranking system, charging system, and the complete ignition system. This is followed by a report analyzing good/bad results. Prerequisite: AT 111
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