Overview of the automotive industry and associated career opportunities. Introduction to tools, equipment, hardware identification, entry-level service techniques, and safety procedures as it relates to the automotive field.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Overview of the emerging technology found in current hybrid electric vehicles. Study includes various vehicle powerplant designs, electric motors, energy storage, hybrid transmissions, hybrid controls, internal combustion engine modifications, safety, and fuel sources. Course work demonstrates the advantages and limitations of the varied vehicle architectures and the underlying physical and electrical principles involved in the operation of an electric hybrid powerplant. Hybrid electric topics include power-split hybrid transmissions, three-phase induction motors, torque smoothing, electrical inverters/converters, external charging, low voltage cooling systems, engine stop/start, battery types, and hi-voltage electrical safety.
1 Credit: 1 Lecture
Study of the electron theory of electricity. Topics include Ohm's law and Kirchhoff's law; AC and DC principles; series and parallel circuits; test meters; wiring diagrams; basic solid-state devices; circuit analysis; and the concepts of capacitance, inductance, and impedance. Overview of integrated circuits and on-board microcomputers.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Corequisites:
AMT127
Prerequisites:
MTH011; or
MTH004 or Placement by Examination
Theory and basic service techniques, including power flow of standard transmissions/transaxles, clutches, universal and C-V joints, drive shafts, axles, and differentials.
3 Credits: 1.50 Lecture, 4.50 Lab
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Fundamentals of brake hydraulics, including theory and operation of servo and non-servo drum brakes, disc and drum brake machining, operation of disc brakes, operation of power assist brakes, and overview of electronic anti-skid brakes.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Principles of operation of steering and suspension, rack and pinion steering gears, and conventional steering gears. Study includes the theory of operation of power steering gears, steering geometry, wheel alignment principles, and static and dynamic wheel balancing.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Nomenclature and operating principles of front- and rear-wheel-drive automatic transmissions/transaxles. Procedures for inspection, bench repairs, and testing of automatic transmissions and transaxles.
3 Credits: 1.50 Lecture, 4.50 Lab
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Introduction to the modern automotive engine with an overview of ignition, fuel, and emission control systems. Topics include the functions and common malfunctions of controlling microprocessor, sensors, and actuators as well as major components of ignition, fuel, and emission control systems. Laboratory work includes testing, installation and system operation.
2 Credits: 1.50 Lecture, 1.50 Lab
Corequisites:
AMT122
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Operating principles of internal combustion engines. Topics include two- and four-stroke cycles, engine nomenclature, cooling, lubricating, and valve systems. Skills/techniques developed include engine disassembly, precision measurement, and assembly. Additional topics include power and torque curves, diesel principles, thread sizes, drilling and tapping.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Principles of engine electrical systems, including testing equipment and procedures. Topics include wiring, connectors, and circuit protection devices; batteries and battery tests; cranking circuits, starter motors, and drives; charging circuits, alternators, and voltage regulators; ignition systems; engine computer controls and electronic fuel injection; and the oscilloscope and other special test equipment.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Corequisites:
AMT109
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Theory and practice surrounding engine performance and driveability. Topics include the systems and components that affect engine performance and the proper procedures for diagnosing and repairing those systems. Emphasis on developing and following a logical diagnostic process. Skills developed include using electronic repair information systems and diagnostic equipment, both manufacturer-specific and generic. Laboratory work involves school-owned vehicles and live repairs on customer-owned vehicles.
4 Credits: 3 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
AMT127 and MTH011; or
AMT127 and MTH005; or
AMT127 and Placement by Examination
Preparation for the Vehicle Safety Inspection exam. As mandated by Pennsylvania regulations, a state-provided course outline will be followed.
1 Credit: 1 Lecture
Corequisites:
AMT243 or HAD221
Prerequisites:
MTH011; or
MTH005 or Placement by Examination
Broad examination and practical application of the inspection and maintenance procedures for brakes, steering, suspension, lighting, tires/wheels, and exhaust systems on many makes of vehicles. Introduction to technological developments in these areas. Laboratory work includes hands-on experiences using customer vehicles as appropriate.
6 Credits: 3 Lecture, 9 Lab
Prerequisites:
MTH011; or
MTH005; or
Placement by Examination
Specialized work experience in the automotive customer service field, including performing the duties of service writers and assistant service managers. Application of theories and techniques studied in Automotive Customer Service Techniques, AMT262. Completed in live-work automotive laboratories. A minimum of 150 hours in the shop will be required to satisfy this internship. As needed.
2 Credits: 0 Lecture, 10 Internship
Corequisites:
AMT262
Specialized, flexible work experience in the automotive customer service field. Emphasis on gathering technician and shop efficiency information, warranty repair issues, and service facility concerns. Placement will be in an appropriate service facility or in the College's live-work laboratory. A minimum of 150 hours in the shop will be required to complete this internship. As needed.
2 Credits: 0 Lecture, 10 Internship
Prerequisites:
AMT260
Overview of the skills and techniques needed to successfully handle automotive service customers. Topics include communication techniques, conflict resolution, co-worker relations, inventory control, customer billing, and the oversight/management of daily operations. As needed.
2 Credits: 2 Lecture
Corequisites:
AMT260
Theory of operation, diagnostic procedures, and repair techniques for computerized powertrain (engine and transmission) controls on modern automobiles. Emphasis on developing and following a logical diagnostic process. Skills developed include using electronic repair information systems and diagnostic equipment, both manufacturer-specific and generic. Laboratory work involves school-owned vehicles and live repairs on customer-owned vehicles.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
MTH011; or
MTH005 or Placement by Examination
Study and practical application of the procedures, techniques, and special equipment used to diagnose engine problems relating to oil consumption, engine noise, power loss, the lubrication system, and the cooling system. Topics covered also include the procedures, techniques, and special equipment used for engine removal and installation. Laboratory work includes performing in-chassis engine repair and engine replacement.
4 Credits: 1.50 Lecture, 7.50 Lab
Prerequisites:
AMT122 and MTH011; or
AMT122 and MTH005; or
AMT122 and Placement by Examination
Theory of operation, diagnostic procedures, and repair techniques for computerized powertrain controls on electric and hybrid vehicles. Study includes electric motors, energy storage, hybrid transmissions, internal combustion engine modifications, and high voltage safety. Emphasis on developing and following a logical diagnostic process. Skills developed include using electronic repair information systems and diagnostic equipment, both manufacturer-specific and generic. Laboratory work involves school-owned vehicles and live repairs on customer-owned vehicles.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
AMT127 and MTH011; or
AMT127 and MTH005; or
AMT127 and Placement by Examination
Overview of vehicle safety systems and how government regulations have influenced their design. Topics include trends in vehicle safety design.
1 Credit: 1 Lecture
Prerequisites:
MTH011; or
MTH005 or Placement by Examination
Theory and operation of automotive air conditioning systems. Topics include proper diagnosis and servicing techniques, including recycling and handling of refrigerants and retrofitting of vehicles from R-12 to R-134 A refrigerant. Practical skills developed in a live-work laboratory setting.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
AMT109
Principles of operation, diagnosis, and repair of many common automotive electrical accessories, including those controlled using conventional electrical components and those controlled by computers. Specific systems include lighting circuits, windshield wiper/washer circuits, horn, power seats, power mirrors, power windows and door locks, supplemental restraint systems, keyless entry, instrumentation, and speed control. Emphasis on accessing pertinent service information, interpreting wiring diagrams to analyze circuits, troubleshooting circuits, and using scan tools in the diagnosis of computer-controlled electrical accessories.
4 Credits: 2 Lecture, 6 Lab
Prerequisites:
AMT109
Introduction to the basic principles and techniques of bolt-on aftermarket performance parts and evaluation with the use of a chassis dynamometer. Topics include chassis dynamometer operation and use; SAE correction factoring; vehicle performance baseline testing; air cleaner element testing; ignition timing adjustment and testing; computer flash performance updating and evaluation, cold air intake design and testing; extensive exhaust testing; cam timing adjustment and testing in conjunction with the use of adjustable cam gears; cylinder head porting and flow bench evaluation. Fall Only.
3 Credits: 1.50 Lecture, 4.50 Lab
Prerequisites:
AMT122