AUT 267

AUTOMOTIVE SUSPENSION AND BRAKING SYSTEMS

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course presents the design, construction, operation, servicing and repair of braking systems. While suspension systems are included in the course title, the primary focus will be directed towards braking systems. This is due in part to the amount of additional coverage required for current anti-lock braking system diagnosis, servicing, and repair. Suspension systems are covered in depth in the AUT 266 course.

AUT 267 covers the use of brake system tools and test equipment, analysis of test data/results, estimation and repair costs. Areas to be taught include manual and power brake systems, theory and operation of hydraulic brakes, drum and disc brakes, and anti-lock braking systems. Traction control systems will also be discussed, as they relate to anti-lock braking systems. Lecture 3 hours. Laboratory 3 hours. Total 6 hours per week.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course, the student should:

1. Possess a working knowledge of assemblies, sub-assemblies, and components of automotive braking systems.
2. Possess an understanding of the theory of operation of automotive braking systems and individual components.
3. Possess the ability to inspect, diagnose, and repair standard and anti-lock brake systems and their sub-systems, as applicable.
4. Understand and apply proper service procedures and practices relating to braking systems.
5. Possess a working knowledge of the tools and equipment used in automotive brake system inspection, diagnosis, and repair.

INSTRUCTOR

Keith Brown

Bisdorf/ AA Bldg., Room 352

703.845.4623 (office)

703.845.6006 (fax)

703.618.6844 (cell)

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

Automotive Chassis Systems

Fourth Edition

James D. Halderman

ISBN#

ENTRY LEVEL COMPENTENCIES

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

GRADING

· Attendance, class participation, class/laboratory conduct – 30%

· Laboratory participation and contract completion-30%

· 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 late arrivals equal 1 unexcused absence.
• Class is not over until you are dismissed by the instructor. Leaving early 4 times equals 1 unexcused absence and no credit for the lab.
• Students are required to conduct themselves in a professional manner. Respect the instructional staff, your fellow students, and yourself.
• 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.
• No assignments will be accepted after 2 weeks past due.
• Students are expected to bring pencils, pens, and notepaper to all class meetings.
• Students must purchase Scan Tron answer sheets for the midterm and final exams. These are available from the campus bookstore. Don’t forget – get them ASAP!
• Students must use a No. 2 black pencil when taking any test requiring a Scan Tron form.
• 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.
• Lab contracts are to be signed by the student and approved by the instructor at the end of each lab session. It is imperative that the lab contract is kept up to date.
• Understand that your success in this course depends on your full participation.

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.

· School closings and emergencies can be found on the main page of the NOVA website or by signing up for NOVAlert