Automotive Technology

Automotive course fees are $15/credit.

Introduction to Automotive Technology (PM110S)
This course is prerequisite for all other automotive courses.
Enables the student to recognize the relationship between career and employment opportunities and the automotive technology program. This includes the safety procedures required, the tools and equipment used, and the mechanics of welding, soldering, tubing and hoses, fasteners and materials used in mechanical operations. The school will supply eye protection. This credit is the prerequisite to all other automotive technology credits.

Engine Fundamentals and Service (PM230S)
The student should be able to define an engine and identify the basic parts of the engine. The student should be able to explain engine operational theory relating to engine compression ratio, horsepower, volumetric efficiency, and mechanical efficiency. This involves identifying, testing and maintaining cooling, and lubrication.. This course is a prerequisite for PM220S.


Chassis Fundamentals and Service (PM330S)
To develop in the student an understanding of suspension systems, steering and alignment. This will be evident through service procedures in wheel bearing, tire repair and wheel balancing, wheel alignment, and brake service, including disc and drum resurfacing. Safety and safe operating principles are stressed.


Drivetrain Fundamentals and Service (PM130S)
The student should be able to define clutches manual transmissions, drive lines, drive axles, and differentials, and perform operations pertaining to all drivetrain components.


Vehicle Systems Part 2: Fuel Systems (PM240S)
The student will be able to define fuel systems and identify components of fuel systems using carburetors, fuel injection, mechanical and electric fuel pumps. Repair procedures include service of filters, supply lines, tanks, fuel gauges, and mechanical and electric fuel pumps. Introduction to computer controlled electronics, inputs, outputs, and sensors. This course is a prerequisite for all Senior 4 automotive technology courses.


Automotive Systems and Service: Engine Recondition (PM220S)
Prerequisite: PM230S
To develop an understanding of engine overhaul diagnosis and engine replacement. Work related performance will be evident through diagnosis of problems and repair of cylinder heads, valves, pistons, rings, crankshaft and bearings, and engine blocks.

Applied Heavy Duty Mechanics (PM640S)
Prerequisite: PM540S
A student will receive a broad overview of the agriculture implement industry and review associated occupational safety issues.  Students will be introduced to basic agriculture tractor preventative maintenance and basic service procedure.  A student will learn the key concepts/components of an applied fluid power system (hydraulics) and diesel engine fuel system.

Automotive Electrical Systems  (PM540S)
The student should be able to define electrical current and pressure, AC and DC current relating to batteries, alternators and electrical components. The work related performance includes re-building starters, alternators and distributors and repairing lights, wiring harnesses and electronics.


Vehicle Systems Part 1: Climate Control and Accessories (PM340S)
Prerequisite: PM540S
The student should be able to identify components of the car heater and air conditioning systems and diagnose and service components of the climate control system. The principles of refrigeration and heat exchanger systems are discussed.

Applied Diagnostic Strategies (PM440S)
Prerequisite: PM540S
The student should be able to identify various engine testing instruments relating to basic engine problems in electrical fuel and emission control. Computerized fuel injection and related systems are discussed and work to correct problems in these systems is performed as encountered. The student must complete 40 practical job sheets to receive course credit. Due to the heavy practical load on the students, attendance is critical. Students who exceed more than 15 absences will not meet the practical shop requirement to earn credit in the course.