Diesel Equipment Technology
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Diesel Equipment Technology provides the foundation needed to understand, maintain, and repair the heavy duty engines and systems that power transportation, construction, agriculture, and industrial operations. This course introduces the principles of diesel engine operation, fuel and emissions systems, electrical and electronic diagnostics, hydraulics, powertrains, and preventive maintenance practices. Students learn how modern diesel technology integrates mechanical systems with advanced computer-controlled components, preparing them to troubleshoot equipment using industry-standard tools and diagnostic procedures.
Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on lab experience, students develop the technical skills, safety awareness, and problem-solving abilities required in today’s diesel service industry. Emphasis is placed on understanding system interactions, interpreting service information, and applying best practices to real world equipment. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the foundational competencies needed for entry-level technician roles and further specialization within the diesel and heavy equipment field.
Employment Stats
- Program Length 1 year (Diploma)
- Job Placement 80%
- Average Earnings $60,640 / yr
About Program
The mission of our program at Chattanooga State is to provide the technical instruction and skill development necessary for the student to become gainfully employed in the field of diesel equipment technology.
This National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified program provides practical experience in the repair and maintenance of engines and related components. Six major topics are covered in this one year course, Diesel Engines, Drive Train, Brakes, Suspension/Steering, Electrical/Electronics, and HVAC. Two minor topics will also be covered “Preventive Maintenance Inspection and Hydraulics”. Students will be exposed to the most up-to-date diagnostic programs and software from industry leaders like Cummins, Caterpillar and Ford. The instruction includes actual hands-on experience on a wide variety of vehicles’ and equipment using factory recommended tooling and procedures. After completion of this program student trainees may seek employment in several areas of the transportation field.
Job Expectations
Technicians normally work in well-lighted and ventilated areas. However, some shops are drafty and noisy. Many employers provide lockers and shower facilities. Diesel technicians usually work indoors, although they occasionally repair vehicles on the road or at the jobsite. Diesel technicians may lift heavy parts and tools, handle greasy and dirty parts, and stand or lie in awkward positions while making repairs. Minor cuts, burns, and bruises are common, although serious accidents can usually be avoided when safety procedures are followed. Technicians may work as a team or be assisted by an apprentice or helper when doing heavy work, such as removing engines and transmissions.
Expected Earnings
Earnings as reported by the U.S. Department of Labor 2010-2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook are as follows: Median annual wage for diesel service technicians and mechanics was $60,640 in May 2024. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $41,670, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $85,980.
Course Schedule
Students may enroll during the fall, spring or summer term provided space is available. Students who are eligible to enroll will be given an opportunity to register for one of the open seats during the enrollment period for each term.
- Full-time classes
- Day and Evening classes
- Enrollment is limited to 30 students in each class
| Semester | Day Class | Evening Class | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall (450 hours) | 7:45am – 2:30pm | Not Available | Monday -Friday |
| Spring (450 hours) | 7:45am – 2:30pm | Not Available | Monday -Friday |
| Summer (390 hours) | 7:45am – 2:30pm | Not Available | Monday -Friday |
Tools
Tools List 1
| Quantity | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Air Blow Gun, Rubber-Tipped and OSHA approved |
| 1 | Chisel, Diamond Point 7/32" or 1/8" |
| 1 | Chisel, Flat 1/2" |
| 1 | Chisel, Flat 3/4" |
| 1 | Chisel, Cape 1/4" or 1/16" |
| 1 | Feeler Gauge-45-degree angle, .006" through .035 |
| 1 | Ball peen Hammer, 8 oz. |
| 1 | Ball peen Hammer, 16 oz. |
| 1 | Ball Peen Hammer, 40 oz |
| 1 | Hammer 3 to 5 lb. dead blow with soft face |
| 1 | Meter Volt, Ohm, Amps, with digital readout with high |
| 1 | impedance (Fluke Mfg. Brand model 77 or similar) |
| 1 | Pliers: Combination slip joint style 6" |
| 1 | Pliers: Interlocking / adjustable joint 12' |
| 1 | Pliers: Needle nose 7 1/4" |
| 1 | Punch: Pin set of six- 3/32", 1/8", 5/32", 3/16", 1/4", 5/16" |
| 1 | Punch: Brass drift, tapered 10-12" long |
| 1 | Punch: Brass drift, 1/2" diameter 10-12' long |
| 1 | Punch: Starter set of 5-1/8", 5/32", 3/16", 1/4", 5/16" |
| 1 | Punch: Center, 3/8" |
| 1 | Torx Set T8, T9, T10, T15, T20, T25, T27, T30 |
| 1 | Universal Swivel 3/8" drive 1/2" drive |
| 1 | Electrical Pliers-Crimper / Stripper |
| 1 | Measuring Tape 3/4"x16' |
| 1 | Pliers Side Cutters |
| 1 | Allen (Hex) Wrench set 2mm thru 12mm |
| 1 | Handled Driver 3/8" |
| 1 | Universal Swivel 3/8" drive 1/2" drive |
Tools List 2
| Quantity | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Electrical Pliers -Crimper / Stripper |
| 1 | Measuring Tape 3/4"x16' |
| 1 | Pliers Side Cutters |
| 1 | Tubing Wrench Set 1/4" thru 7/8" 6 point |
| 1 | Allen (Hex) Wrench set 2mm thru 12mm |
| 1 | Allen (Hex) Wrench set 5/64" thru 3/8" |
| 1 | 3/8" Drive Flex Socket Set 3/8" thru 3/4" |
| 1 | Ratchet 3/8" drive |
| 1 | 3/8" Drive Extensions 3", 6", 8" |
| 1 | 3/8"-3/4" Shallow (12 point) socket set |
| 1 | 10mm-19mm Shallow (6 point) socket set |
| 1 | 1/4" Drive 3/16"-1/2" Shallow socket set |
| 1 | 1/4" Drive 3/16"-1/2" Deep socket set |
| 1 | 4mm-13mm Shallow socket set |
| 1 | 4mm-13mm Deep socket set |
| 1 | 1/4" Drive Extensions short/medium/long |
| 1 | 1/4" Drive Ratchet |
| 1 | Adjustable Wrench 12" |
| 1 | Adjustable Wrench 10" |
| 1 | 1/2" Dr Impact Sockets shallow 10mm-32mm |
| 1 | 1/2" Dr.Impact Sockets deep set 10mm-32mm |
| 1 | 1/2" Dr extensions short/medium/long |
| 1 | Ratchet 1/2" drive |
| 1 | Screw Drivers Blade Type 1", 6", 9" 12" Offset |
| 1 | Screw Drivers Phillips 1"- #2, 6"- #2, 12"-#3 |
| 1 | Safety Glasses (OSHA approved) |
| 1 | Inspection Mirror |
| 1 | Magnetic Pick-Up Tool |
Tools List 3
| Quantity | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | 3/8" Torque Wrench in.lbs. |
| 1 | 1/2" Torque Wrench ft.lbs (30-250ft.lbs) |
| 1 | 1/2" Dr Air Impact Wrench |
| 1 | 3/8" Dr Air impact Wrench |
| 1 | 1/2" Dr Impact Socket shallow set 3/8" thru 1 1/8" |
| 1 | 3/8" Dr Impact Sockets shallow 5/16" thru 1" |
| 1 | 1/2" Dr Impact Socket deep set 3/8" thru 1 1/8" |
| 1 | 3/8" Dr Impact Sockets deep 5/16" thru 1" |
| 1 | Combination Wrenches Standard 3/8" thru 1 1/4" |
| 1 | Combination Wrenches Metric 6mm - 24mm |
| 1 | O-Ring Pick |
| 1 | Flashlight |
| 1 | Scrapers 1" wide or larger |
| 1 | 90 deg Air Angle Die Grinder |
| 1 | Creeper |
| 1 | Snap Ring Pliers |
| 1 | Pry Bar (Lady Foot) 12" and 16" |
| 1 | Roll-a-Way Toolbox not to exceed |
| 1 | 42"L X 41"H X 20"D |
*Uniform Shirt- Charcoal Gray, Uniform Pants- Charcoal Gray
Cost
TCAT Special Fees
Charged in Addition to Maintenance and Tuition
- Credit by Examination - The regular course fee is charged for each special examination and must be paid prior to taking the examination. Non-refundable.
- Credit for Life Experience - $15 per credit hour in excess of 3 credit hours. $90 maximum.
- High School Equivalency Test (Hi-SET) - $75
- ACT Placement Test - $45
Books
Program textbook costs are approximately $400.00
Textbook CDX Bundle ISBN: 9781284110586
- Fundamentals of Medium/Heavy Duty Diesel Engines
- 2nd Edition
- Author: Gus Wright
- Publisher: Jones & Bartlett
- Copyright: 2022
- Pages: 1,878
- Fundamentals of Medium-Heavy Duty Commercial Vehicle Systems
- 2nd Edition
- Author: Gus Wright
- Publisher: Jones & Bartlett
- Copyright: 2020
- Pages: 1,912
Curriculum
Accredited by National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF)
Fall Semester
Diesel Engines: 275 HRS Students will use various precision measuring devices such as outside micrometers, bore gauge, and dial indicators. This subject will give the students a better understanding of systems operation and functions. The students will work in teams and/or small groups. Students may be asked to work alone to complete some task. The students will disassemble a diesel engine measure, assemble and adjust to industry specifications.
Suspension And Steering: 175 HRS
Students will perform various service and repair task using live vehicles and perform alignments using the string and tape method and with a mobile laser alignment systems.
Spring Semester
Electrical / Electronics: 240HRS Students will explore the fundamentals of electricity including charging & starting systems, lighting, wiring and warning systems. On completion of theory, students should be able to understand Voltage, Current, Amperes, Resistance, Ohm’s, Series, Parallel, Series parallel, Solenoids, Relay’s, Switches, Circuit Protection Devices, Sensor’s and interpret Wiring Diagrams. Students will perform diagnosis and repair of electrical problems using wiring schematics and test equipment on live vehicles.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION: 110 HRS
Students will perform various service and preventive maintenance task using live vehicles and perform Pre Trip inspections.
Hydraulics: 100 HRS
Students will inspect and troubleshoot basic hydraulic systems.
Summer Semester
Heating, Ventilation & Air-Conditioning: 130 HRS
Students will perform diagnosis and repair of Heating, Ventilation & Air-Conditioning systems associated with various vehicles with a primary focus on class 8 medium and heavy duty trucks. The importance and proper use of Recycle/Recovery Equipment as well as Safety and Environmental issues will be addressed. This subject will give the students a better understanding of systems operation and functions. The students will work in teams and/or small groups. Students may be asked to work alone to complete some task.
BRAKES: 150 HRS
Students will perform various service and maintenance task on hydraulic and air brake systems.
Drive Train: 110 HRS
Students will perform various service and maintenance task on various drive train components, such as clutches transmissions and axles.