Program Description
Automotive and Light Duty Diesel Technology Program
1st YEAR:
Automotive Foundation and Safety
ASE A1 - Engine Repair and Theory
ASE A3 - Manual Driveline and Axles
ASE A6 - Automotive Electricity and Electronics I
The first part of the year is spent on basic personal and shop safety, as well as tools, fasteners and precision measuring equipment. This is followed by the basic operation of the various automotive systems with emphasis placed on engine, lubrication and cooling systems. Next, students are introduced to manual drive lines and the concept of power transmission. The second part of the year is dedicated to basic electrical theory and working with battery, charging and starting system diagnosis and repair. All classes are designed to prepare students for careers in the Automotive Industry and include theory, as well as practical hands-on experience in our lab.
Skill areas include:
▪ Safety
▪ Tools & Shop Equipment
▪ Vehicle Maintenance
▪ Engine Theory, Construction & Basic Diagnostics
▪ Precision Measurement & Fasteners
▪ Electronics & Electricity -Level I
▪ Preventative Maintenance Service
▪ Manual Driveline, Hybrid and EV Safety
▪ Vocabulary – Industry related
2nd YEAR:
ASE A6 - Automotive Electricity and Electronics II
ASE A8 - Engine Performance
ASE A2 - Automatic Transmissions/Transaxles
The year begins with a review of electricity and electronics 1, followed by all the other systems which will include lighting, comfort, security, warning devices, etc. The second part of the year is spent learning the basics of computer controls and the use of scan tools to diagnose and repair drivability problems, with an emphasis on fuel and ignition systems. The students will be introduced to the various emissions systems and the equipment necessary to diagnose and repair them. The students will also be given an overview of diesel engine operation and fuel management as well as turbo and supercharger systems. The students will also be introduced to the concepts of automatic transmission systems and their maintenance, diagnosis and repair. All classes are designed to prepare students for careers in the Automotive Industry and include theory, as well as practical hands-on experience in our lab. An emphasis is placed on the math, science and reading skills necessary for success in the transportation industry.
Skill areas include:
▪ Electronics & Electricity -Level II
▪ Engine Performance: Computer Controls & Diagnosis
▪ Emissions Systems
▪ Basic Light Duty Diesel Engine Operation, Turbo Systems
▪ Automatic Transmissions/Transaxle and Driveline, Hybrid and EV Technology
▪ Vocabulary – Industry related
3rd YEAR:
ASE A4 - Automotive Steering, Suspension and Alignment
ASE A5 - Automotive Brake Systems
ASE A7 - Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning Systems
The first part of the year is spent identifying, diagnosing and repairing various types of suspension and steering systems. Vehicle alignments complete the repair process. The second part of the year is dedicated to brake systems, their operation, diagnosis and repair procedures, including drum, disk, ABS and related subsystems. The final unit is heating and air conditioning systems diagnosis, repair, and the environmental rules necessary to be compliant. All classes are designed to prepare students for careers in the Automotive Industry and include theory, as well as practical hands-on experience in our lab. An emphasis is placed on the math, science and reading skills necessary for success in the transportation industry.
Skill areas include:
▪ Brake systems, Hydraulics, ABS, TCS, ESC
▪ Steering & Suspension Systems
▪ Air Conditioning & Heating Systems, Hybrid and EV handling
▪ Vocabulary – Industry related
4th YEAR:
Advanced and Independent Study
The returning fourth year students will be challenged with projects and materials geared to increase both their proficiency and depth of understanding of previous areas of study. In addition, they will have the opportunity to explore material not covered by the general population during the first three years of study.
Students may work on a curriculum appropriate personal project with instructor approval.
Eligible students may participate in the Work Study Program, also known as, Cooperative Education (CE). The CE Program offers placement for students at local businesses and industries throughout Somerset County. Students participating in the Cooperative Education program will receive academic instruction during the morning at SCVTHS, and then spend the remainder of the day working at a paid experience job in a supervised jobsite environment.