AUT 266

AUTOMOTIVE ALIGNMENT, SUSPENSION AND STEERING

COURSE DESCRIPTION

AUT 266 covers the theory of operation and repair of steering and suspension systems found on modern passenger vehicles. It is designed to provide the student with a comprehensive and working knowledge of these systems. Areas to be covered include vehicle alignment theory and use of alignment equipment for repairs, steering and suspension diagnosis and repair procedures, vibration diagnosis and repair procedures and use of service information to obtain specifications and repair procedures. Lecture 3 hours. Laboratory 3 hours. Total 6 hours per week.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• Identify the components of steering and suspension systems found on modern passenger vehicles.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the technology and theories related to the operation and repair of steering and suspension systems.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the theories and terminology related to wheel alignment.
• Identify existing problems related to tires, wheels, steering systems, suspension systems and wheel alignment and determine the necessary action.
• Identify customer concerns relating to steering and suspension systems and determine the necessary repairs.
• Demonstrate skills in inspection procedures, diagnosing and performing repairs and adjustments.
• Reference service information to locate repair procedures, specifications and service bulletins.
• Demonstrate an approach in which safety and work habits will ensure quality repairs and professionalism in the lab/workplace.

INSTRUCTOR

Keith Brown

Bisdorf/ AA Bldg, Room 352

703.845.4623 (office)

703.845.6003 (fax)

703.618.6844 (cell)

Email: keibrown@nvcc.edu

Note: Instructor office hours are available at the administrative desk in the AA/Bisdorf Building, room 352, or by calling 703.845.6341

COURSE TEXT

“ASE 4 –Suspension & Steering”

GM ASEP/BSEP spiral bound book

ENTRY LEVEL COMPENTENCIES

Functional ability to read, write, and speak the English language.

GRADING

· Attendance, class participation, laboratory performance, class/laboratory conduct-60%

· Tests, quizzes, homework- 20%

· Final exam- 20%

Letter-grade equivalents: A = 91-100

                                         B = 81-90

                                         C = 71-80

                                         D = 61-70

                                         F = 60 and below

Student responsibilities and requirements:

· Attendance is mandatory! Unexcused absences will result in a reduced course grade or possible automatic withdrawal.

• Be punctual – all sessions are planned to start on time, 4 tardy marks = 1 unexcused absence.
• 3 unexcused absences will result in a reduction of one letter grade.
• Students are required to conduct themselves in a professional manner. Respect the instructional staff, your fellow students, and yourself.
• Understand that your success in this course depends on your full participation.
• Students must purchase Scan Tron answer sheets. These are available from the campus bookstore.
• Students must use a No. 2 black pencil when taking any test requiring a Scan Tron form.
• All homework assignments and take home tests are due within one week from when they are given. Assignments turned in late will be subject to a 20% grade penalty.
• Students are expected to bring pencils, pens, and notepaper to all class meetings.
• Students must read, understand and adhere to the attached “Automotive Laboratory Rules”.
• Students are required to clean up laboratory areas used during class. This is to include returning all tools and equipment borrowed from the college. The college (and most repair shops) does not provide janitorial services in shop areas. Sufficient time will be given prior to the end of lab sessions for clean-up.

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS AND INFORMATION

· If you are seeking special accommodations based on a disability, you must provide an Accommodations Memorandum. This can be obtained from the Counselor for Special Needs, located in the Bisdorf/AA building, Room 148. The telephone number is 703.845.6301.

· Students should expect to spend a minimum of two hours per week outside of class for proper preparation and completion of homework. Your success in this course will largely depend on your desire and interest in the subject and the effort you are willing to put forth.

· Please feel free to discuss any concerns or problems regarding the course with the instructor. Your feedback is essential to the quality of this course.