Diesel Equipment Technology
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The program prepares students to enter the work force equipped to maintain large diesel engine-powered fleets of both on-highway and off-highway vehicles. The skills learned include the assembly and disassembly of diesel engines; the repair and replacement of cylinder blocks, camshafts, crankcases, and cylinder heads and valves; timing and valve mechanisms; air intake and other support systems and components; diesel fuel, governors, fuel-injection, nozzles and holders; and specific brands of fuel systems like CAT , Cummins and Detroit .
Diesel mechanics in a smaller shop are usually general mechanics that are qualified to perform a variety of repairs. In larger diesel shops, the mechanics specialize in a particular type of repair work. For example, some may specialize in repairing only power transmissions, torque converters, diesel engines, or brakes. Usually such specialists have an all-around knowledge of diesel repair and may occasionally be called upon to do other types of work. This full-time day program is offered on the main campus only.
Employment Stats
- Program Length 1 year (Diploma)
- Job Placement 80%
- Average Earnings $42,730 / yr
- Cost $6,049
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 hourly wages of bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists, including incentive pay, were $18.94 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $15.25 and $23.58 an hour. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $12.50, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $28.41 an hour.
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
| 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 | File, flat mill, single cut |
| 1 | File, Tapered, 10" round |
| 1 | File, single cut,12" three square, |
| 1 | Feeler Gauge-45 degree angle, 006" through .035 |
| 1 | Thread Pitch Gauge , Metric |
| 1 | Thread Pitch Gauge , Standard |
| 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 | Pocket Rule 6" standard and metric |
| 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 | Handled Driver 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 | Tubing Wrench Set 1/4" thru 7/8" 6 point |
| 1 | Allen (Hex) Wrench set 2mm thru 12mm |
| 1 | Handled Driver 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 | 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" Standard Depth (12 point) socket set |
| 1 | 3/8"-3/4" Deep (6 point) socket set |
| 1 | 10mm -19mm Standard Depth (6 point) socket set |
| 1 | 1/4" Drive 3/16"-1/2" Standard Depth socket set |
| 1 | 1/4" Drive 3/16"-1/2" Deep socket set |
| 1 | 4mm-13mm Standard Depth 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. 1/2"-1 1/8" shallow impact or chrome |
| 1 | 1/2' Dr.7/16"-1 1/8" deep impact or chrome |
| 1 | 1/2' Dr.13mm-32mm shallow impact or chrome |
| 1 | 1/2" Dr.13mm-32mm deep impact or chrome |
| 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 | Hacksaw |
| 1 | Inspection Mirror |
| 1 | Magnetic Pick Up Tool |
| 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 | 3/8" Dr Impact Sockets shallow 5/16" thru 3/4" |
| 1 | 1/2" Dr Impact Socket deep set 3/8" thru 1" |
| 1 | 3/8" Dr impact Sockets deep 5/16" thru 3/4" |
| 1 | Combination Wrenches Standard 3/8" thru 1" |
| 1 | Combination Wrenches Metric 6mm - 19mm |
| 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 with Interchangable Tips |
| 1 | Pry Bar (Lady Foot) 12" and 16" |
| 1 | Roll-a-Way Tool box not to exceed |
| 1 | 42"L X 41"H X 20"D |
| *Uniform Shirt- Charcoal Gray |
Cost
| *Fall 450 hours | $1,383 |
| Spring 450 hours | $1,383 |
| Summer 390 hours | $1,383 |
| Tools (estimate) | $1,500.00 (avg.) |
| Books (estimate) | $ 400.00 |
TCAT Special Fees
Charged in Addition to Maintenance and Tuition
- Credit by Examination Fee - The regular course fee is charged for each special examination and must be paid prior to taking the examination. Non-refundable. (See Academic Regulations.)
- Credit for Life Experience Fees - Assessment Fee for Experiential Learning $45.00. Experiential Learning Credit $15.00 per credit hour in excess of 3.0 credit hours. $90.00 maximum.
- High School Equivalency Test (Hi-SET) - $75
- Placement Test Fees - ACT - $45.00. (Refer to Admissions Policy.)
Books
Program textbook costs are approximately $400.00
Text # 1: Heavy Duty Truck Systems, 5th Edition Sean Bennett - ISBN-13: 9781435483828
1280 Pages | © 2011 | Publisher, Delmar Cengage Learning
Text #2: Modern Diesel Technology: Diesel Engines, 2nd Edition Sean Bennett - ISBN-10 1285442962, ISBN-13 9781285442969
360 Pages | © 2015 | Publisher, Cengage Learning
Text #3: Math for the Automotive Trade, 5th Edition John C. Peterson | William DeKryger - ISBN-13: 9781111318239
352 Pages | © 2012 | Publisher, Delmar Cengage Learning
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.