Course Descriptions
Diesel Engine Laboratory
DSM116
Introduction to the practical application of basic mechanical operations and procedures, with an emphasis on component nomenclature, correct service, maintenance, and safety procedures.
4 Credits: 0 Lecture, 12 Lab
Corequisites:
DSM154
Introduction to Hydraulics
DSM117
Introduction to hydraulic principles and systems. Study includes flow, pressure, and multiplication of force and velocity of a liquid within a system as well as the common basic components in a hydraulic system.
1 Credit: 1 Lecture
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Fuel Systems
DSM119
Basic introduction to the theory and operation of mechanical and electronic fuel injection systems as they apply to the heavy-duty diesel engine field, with a focus on operation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair, and safety.
2 Credits: 2 Lecture
Basic Electricity
DSM120
Introduction to the basic principles of electricity, electrical safety, multimeters, Ohm's Law, magnetism, electrical terminology, operating procedures of analog and digital instruments, schematic reading, chemical and mechanical generation of electricity, starting circuits, charging circuits, voltage regulators, switches, solenoids, electrical control devices. Circuit analysis of parallel, series, and series-parallel networks. Emphasis on diagnosing and locating electrical malfunctions located in a circuit.
4 Credits: 2 Lecture, 6 Lab
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Hydraulics I
DSM121
Foundation of hydraulic principles and system operation. Topics studied include the principles of flow and pressure within a mobile hydraulic system, how force is multiplied, the importance of velocity within a conductor, flow requirements within a hydraulic system, and the application of conductors within a system. Introduction to the various accessories used in mobile hydraulics, including accumulators, filters, maintenance procedures, coolers, and reservoir types as well as the operation of gear and vane pumps. Safety instructions involving working around hydraulic equipment are covered.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
Placement by Examination; or
MTH004
Hydraulics II
DSM122
Study of the operation, disassembly, evaluation, assembly and various setup procedures and their application to piston pumps. Course work includes learning to disassemble, explain the operation, evaluate failures, assemble, and perform the various setup procedures on hydraulic valves. Topics include the various systems on hydraulic equipment and how to read a schematic. Hands-on practice also includes disassembling, evaluating, learning the various seals of, and performing the proper reassembly procedures for hydraulic cylinders.
4 Credits: 2 Lecture, 6 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM121
Truck Tractor Chassis & Alignment
DSM140
Study of suspension, frame and steering components, including the alignment, maintenance and preventative maintenance of these systems and their components.
3 Credits: 1 Lecture, 6 Lab
Corequisites:
DSM141, DSM142, DSM146 or DSM142, DSM146, DSM156
Heavy Duty Brake Systems
DSM141
Explanation and theory of brake systems common to heavy duty vehicles and equipment. Selected topics include air, hydraulic, and anti-lock systems with emphasis on troubleshooting and practical applications of repair and maintenance.
2 Credits: 2 Lecture
Corequisites:
DSM142 or DSM155
Powertrain & Brake Systems Lab
DSM142
Hands-on applications of heavy vehicle power train and brake system components. Overhaul, adjustment, and repair procedures of heavy transmissions, drive lines, differentials, clutches, and final drives. Troubleshooting and repair of hydraulic and pneumatic brake systems and other instructor-selected topics.
4 Credits: 0 Lecture, 12 Lab
Corequisites:
DSM140, DSM141, DSM146 or DSM140, DSM146, DSM156
Commercial Truck Power Train & State Inspection
DSM146
Introduction to the theory of operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and overhaul of commercial vehicle power trains. Topics to include clutches, manual and automatic transmissions, drive line and universal joint design, single and tandem drive systems, Pennsylvania State Inspection theory and practical procedures.
3 Credits: 3 Lecture
Corequisites:
DSM140, DSM141, DSM142 or DSM140, DSM142, DSM156
Electric Power Generation Internship
DSM152
Specialized work experience to be performed in a participating dealership, applying knowledge and skills developed during the first year of Electric Power Generations instruction. Conducted in accordance with industry standards. A minimum of 240 hours will be required for this internship. Summer Only.
2 Credits: 0 Lecture, 10 Internship
Prerequisites:
CSC124 and DSM116 and DSM154 and DSM159 and MTH124 and RET122; or
CSC124 and DSM116 and DSM154 and DSM159 and MTH180 and RET122; or
CSC124 and DSM116 and DSM154 and DSM159 and MTH123 and RET122; or
CSC124 and DSM116 and DSM154 and DSM159 and MTH181 and RET122
Internship
DSM153
Specialized work experience to be performed in a participating business, applying knowledge and skills developed during the first year of heavy equipment instruction. The course will be conducted in accordance with the guidelines established by industry standards. A minimum of 240 hours of full-time work is required.
2 Credits: 0 Lecture, 10 Internship
Prerequisites:
CSC124 and DSM120 and DSM121 and DSM154 and DSM160 and MTH124; or
CSC124 and DSM120 and DSM121 and DSM154 and DSM160 and MTH180; or
CSC124 and DSM120 and DSM121 and DSM154 and DSM160 and MTH123; or
CSC124 and DSM120 and DSM121 and DSM154 and DSM160 and MTH181
Diesel Engine Technology
DSM154
Introduction to the theory of diesel engine operation, mechanical functions, component terminology, and manufacturers' engine nomenclature. Focus on basic engine overhaul procedures necessary to service and repair diesel engines. Additional discussion includes precision measuring, shop safety, proper tool identification and usage as well as fastener identification.
5 Credits: 5 Lecture
Corequisites:
DSM116
Powertrain & Brake Systems Lab
DSM155
Practical application of heavy vehicle and construction equipment powertrain and brake system components. Overhaul, component identification, adjustment, and repair procedures of heavy transmissions, drivelines, differentials, clutches, undercarriages, final drives, and bearings. Troubleshooting and repair of hydraulic and pneumatic brake systems and other instructor-selected topics.
4 Credits: 0 Lecture, 12 Lab
Corequisites:
DSM160
Heavy Equipment Brake Systems
DSM156
Explanation and theory of brake systems common to heavy equipment. Topics include parking brake, internal wet disc, air, hydraulic, accumulated, and anti-lock systems with emphasis on troubleshooting and practical applications of repair and maintenance.
2 Credits: 2 Lecture
Corequisites:
DSM155
Electrical Power Generation Safety
DSM159
Introduction of safety practices pertaining to electrical systems and mechanical components used in electrical power generation systems. Instruction includes lock-out/tag-out instructions, arc flash safety, CPR & AED training, and the NFPA Electrical Power Generation industry regulations. Fall Only.
2 Credits: 2 Lecture
Fundamentals of Powertrain Technology
DSM160
Introduction to the operation and theory of heavy-duty vehicle power train, including transmissions, clutches, drive shafts, differential carriers, axles, tracks, undercarriages, clutch-type steering systems, and final drives. Principles of torque multiplication and bearing adjustment are included, along with shop safety and selecting the correct tooling.
4 Credits: 4 Lecture
Corequisites:
DSM141, DSM142 or DSM141, DSM155 or DSM142, DSM156 or DSM155, DSM156
Gaseous-Fueled Engines
DSM225
Introduction to the theory and operation of gaseous-fueled engines and generator sets (e.g., natural gas, liquid propane, gasoline, methane, and hydrogen). Topics include fuel system and electrical system component operation and diagnostic troubleshooting. Students learn how to correctly size fuel supplies and calculate air fuel ratio (AFR). Spring Only.
2 Credits: 1 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM116 and DSM120; or
AMT109 and AMT122
Automatic Transfer Switch
DSM226
Study of the theory and operation of different types of transfer switches and switching devices (manual, automatic, residential, and commercial). Topics include safety, part identification, testing and troubleshooting, sizing of switches to specification of building loads, load shedding devices, switch gear introduction, breaker types and maintenance, inferred camera inspection of electrical equipment, and repair of transfer switches, breaker, and switch gear equipment. Introduction to paralleling multiple generator sets with or without utility. Fall Only.
2 Credits: 1 Lecture, 3 Lab
Corequisites:
DSM227
Prerequisites:
RET122
Power Generation Theory & Operation
DSM227
Introduction to the practical application of power generation theory. Emphasis on basic alternator theory, reconfiguration of power generators to produce different voltages, and different types of schematics and control symbols. Topics include generator end testing, voltage regulator troubleshooting, and insulation resistance testing as well as safe load banking procedures. Fall Only.
4 Credits: 2 Lecture, 6 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM159 and RET122
Residential Power Generation
DSM228
Introduction to the theory and operation of different types of residential power generation sets. Topics include fuel systems; parts and components identification; usage and operation of residential generators and transfer switches; and installation, servicing, and preventative maintenance of engines and alternators. Spring Only.
2 Credits: 1 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM159 and DSM227 and RET122
Hydraulics III
DSM230
Study of troubleshooting hydraulic systems, hydrostatic transmissions and hydraulic-assist transmissions. The course deals heavily in the use of test equipment and schematic reading. Emphasis on the operation, control, and repair of the hydrostatic transmission. The control portion emphasizes mechanical, hydraulic-over-hydraulic, and electric-over-hydraulic controls. Torque converter and retarder operation is included within the hydraulic-assist transmission portion.
6 Credits: 3 Lecture, 9 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM122
Heavy Equipment Machine Electronics & Diagnostic Procedures
DSM236
Introduction to the theory and operation of electronic control systems used in the off-highway equipment industry. Topics include component and symbols identification, troubleshooting and repair, electronic control module (ECM) operation, sensor types and function, sensor testing, wiring diagrams and schematics, onboard networking systems, and telematics operation. Digital multi-meters and electronic service tools are used for diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures. Fall Only.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM120
Diesel Equipment Air Conditioning Systems
DSM242
Introduction to basic heating and air conditioning systems with an emphasis on systems common to construction equipment and over-the-road trucks. Topics to be covered include basic heating systems, refrigeration principles, component identification, component function, refrigerants, environmental concerns, system testing, diagnosis, and repair.
2 Credits: 1 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM120
Allison Transmissions
DSM245
Introduction to the theory of operation, preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and overhaul of Allison World Transmissions. Topics include torque converters, planetary gears and power flows, hydraulic components, internal fluid management systems, internal and external electronic control and interface systems, and basic electricity as applied to the World Transmission.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Vehicle Electronics/Diagnostic Procedures
DSM258
Introduction to the troubleshooting and repair of electronic fuel injection systems used by the major manufacturers of on-highway, heavy-duty diesel engines and the major truck manufacturers that utilize these engines. Topics include troubleshooting and repair, laptop computers and diagnostic readers, wiring circuitry and connections, wiring schematics, electronic component testing, maintenance, and adjustments and tune-ups. Spring Only.
3 Credits: 1 Lecture, 6 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM116 and DSM119 and DSM120 and DSM154 and DSM289
Truck & Trailer Refrigeration Systems
DSM268
Study of the operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of highway vehicle refrigeration systems. Topics include compressors, expansion valves, three-way valves, condensers, evaporators, and control systems. Spring Only.
4 Credits: 2 Lecture, 6 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM116 and DSM120 and DSM154
Heavy Equipment Electronic Systems
DSM277
Introduction to heavy-duty electronic systems operation as applied in the heavy equipment/truck industry. Focus on electronic fuel systems operation, electronic system operations, integrated electronic systems operation, sensor types and functions, system analysis using Digital Multimeter (DMM) special tooling, PCs, service publications, and schematics. Spring Only.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM119 and DSM120
Automated & Hybrid Drive Systems
DSM278
Theory of operation, diagnostics, and maintenance procedures on automated mechanical transmissions and hybrid drive systems used in the commercial trucking industry. Theories covered are relevant to products currently available from leading manufacturers in the industry.
2 Credits: 2 Lecture
Prerequisites:
DSM142 and DSM146
Introduction to CAT Vehicles
DSM284
Introduction to the operation of most commonly used Caterpillar (CAT) earthmoving equipment. Safety, inspection checklist, start-up procedures, and proper operation techniques are explored. Service access and connection areas are identified along with lifting, support, and towing locations.
1 Credit: 1 Lecture
Corequisites:
DSM285 or DSM287
CAT Vehicles Laboratory
DSM285
Introduction to the operation of most commonly used Caterpillar (CAT) earth moving equipment. Safety, inspection checklist, start-up procedures, and proper operation techniques are explored. Service access and connection areas are identified along with lifting, support, and towing locations.
1 Credit: 0 Lecture, 3 Lab
Corequisites:
DSM284
CAT Vehicle Machine Electronics & Diagnostic Procedures
DSM286
Introduction to Caterpillar (CAT) machine electronics and monitoring systems, including the theoretical and practical operations of each system. Topics include component and symbols identification, wiring diagrams and schematics, CAT Vital Information Management System (VIMS), CAT Electronic Technician (ET), and Computer Monitoring System (CMS). Measuring instruments and tools, both off-board and on-board, are used for diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures. Fall Only.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM120
Heavy Construction Vehicle Laboratory
DSM287
Introduction to the operation of the most commonly used heavy construction equipment. Safety, pre-operational inspections, start-up, shut-down, and basic operating techniques will be included in the course. Service points, test connection areas, and proper field test procedures ensure safety while operating. Proper vs. improper lifting and/or towing procedures as they apply to construction equipment.
1 Credit: 0 Lecture, 3 Lab
Corequisites:
DSM284
Caterpillar Electronic Engine Management Systems
DSM288
Introduction to the theory and operation of Caterpillar electronic fuel injection systems, operation, and troubleshooting. Emphasis on utilizing Caterpillar’s ET computer-based diagnostic program and online Service Information System (SIS). Topics include electronic fuel systems, emissions, parts and components identification, usage and operation, electronic governing, and set-up of programmable functions using laptop computers. Introductory coverage of advanced electrical/electronic system principals, sensor type and function, sensor testing, system analysis using a digital multimeter (DMM) and/or special tooling, schematics, and wiring diagrams is included. Spring Only.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
CSC124 and DSM116 and DSM119 and DSM120 and DSM154
Diesel Electronic Fuels: Systems, Operation & Diagnostics
DSM289
Introduction to theory and operation of the different types of electronic fuel injection systems used by the major manufacturers of on-highway heavy-duty diesel engines. Topics include electronic fuel systems, parts and components identification, usage and operation, electronic governoring, set up programmable functions using laptop computers, and diagnostic readers. Introduction to advanced electrical/electronic system principals, sensor type and function, sensor testing, system analysis using a digital multimeter (DMM) and/or special tooling, schematics, and wiring diagrams. Fall Only.
5 Credits: 3 Lecture, 6 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM116 and DSM119 and DSM120 and DSM154; or
DSM116 and DSM119 and DSM154 and ELT122
Power Generation Systems
DSM292
Introduction to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) specific control panels, operation and design. Study of different OEM’s control of voltage, amperage, and frequency. Focus on changing parameters and control panels. General inspection and commissioning of new and used power generation applications are discussed as well as the theory and practical application of paralleling multiple generators. Preparation for the Electrical Generating Systems Association (EGSA) apprentice exam. Spring Only.
3 Credits: 2 Lecture, 3 Lab
Prerequisites:
DSM227