NORTHERN VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

COURSE SYLLABUS

AUT 266

AUTOMOTIVE ALIGNMENT, SUSPENSION, AND STEERING

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION

 

Introduces use of alignment equipment in diagnosing, adjusting, and repairing front and rear suspension systems. Covers repair and servicing of standard and power steering systems. Lecture 3 hours. Laboratory 3 hours. Total 6 hours per week. 4 credits.

 

COURSE OBJECTIVES

 

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

 

  • identify the components of the steering system and the front/rear suspension systems that are common to modern passenger vehicles
  • demonstrate an understanding of the technology and theories that relate to the operation of the steering system and front/rear suspension systems
  • demonstrate an understanding of the theories and terminology related to wheel alignment
  • comprehend the interrelationship existing among the components of the steering and suspension systems and their effects on wheel alignment
  • demonstrate skills in inspection procedures, troubleshooting, and making corrective repairs and adjustments
  • identify existing problems related to tires, wheels, steering systems, suspension systems and wheel alignment
  • use available service information resources in locating specifications related to the inspection, repair and adjustment of steering and suspension systems
  • identify and practice work habits that that will preserve their safety and the safety of others in the laboratory, thus insuring a high level of quality and professionalism in the services performed
  • perform four-wheel alignment observing correct adjustment procedures using available alignment equipment
  • introduce, identify and practice basic supplemental restraint/air bag safety and servicing procedures.

 

COURSE TEXT

 

“Automotive Chassis Systems”  w/NATEF Worksheets

Author: Halderman

Publisher: Pearson

ISBN:  9780138018771

COURSE PREREQUISITES

 

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

 

GRADING

 

  • Attendance and participation = 20%
  • Laboratory performance, conduct and completion of the laboratory contract = 30%
  • Tests, quizzes, special projects and homework = 30%
  • Final exam = 20%

 

Letter-grade equivalents:      A = 91-100%

                                              B = 81-90%

                                              C = 71-80%

                                              D = 61-70%

                                              F = 60 and below

 

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES/REQUIREMENTS

 

  • Attendance is mandatory! Unexcused absences will result in a reduced course grade. Each student will be allowed a maximum of TWO excused absences during the semester for either illness or a legitimate emergency. You must contact the instructor within two hours of the scheduled class meeting time to be eligible for an excused absence!
  • Students who do not attend the first two class meetings will be withdrawn in accordance with current college policy. Students that attend at least one of the first two class meetings will not be dropped and subject to a failing grade if they do not attend future classes. It is the student’s responsibility to withdraw themselves if they cannot continue the course and do not want a failing grade.
  • Classes are planned to begin at their scheduled times. Unexcused late arrivals will result in a grade penalty.
  • Students are required to inform the instructor if they leave before the end of a class or lab session.
  • Students are required to conduct themselves in a professional manner. Respect the instructional staff, your fellow students and yourself.
  • Students are expected to bring pencils, pens, and note paper/books to all class meetings.
  • All homework assignments are due one week from when they are assigned, unless otherwise specified by the instructor. Assignments turned in late will be subject to a grade penalty of 10% for each week past the due date.
  • Students must purchase ScanTron answer sheets for assignments/tests. They are available at the campus bookstore. Also, students must use a No. 2 black pencil for any assignment/test requiring a ScanTron answer sheet.
  • Students must adhere to current Automotive Laboratory Rules/Policies, which are posted at the entrance to Room AE117/Tool Room.
  • All students must adhere to Virginia Statute 22.1-175, regarding protective eyewear for ALL laboratory activities. Safety glasses with sunglass-type dark lenses are not acceptable for indoor lab use.
  • Automotive Program students are invited to use their non-business personal vehicles for course-related laboratory activities. Student vehicles often exhibit real-world faults that provide excellent learning opportunities. However, the Automotive Program is not a “hobby shop” environment! Due to the number of classes and space/parking constraints, non-NOVA vehicles must be removed at the end of each lab session to provide space for the next class. Please be aware of these realities when requesting personal vehicle work.
  • The use of electronic devices such as MP3s, iPODs, portable game systems and smartphones is prohibited during lectures or lab sessions. Texting, web-surfing, and gaming are unacceptable activities during class sessions.
  • It is assumed that each student is attending class because of their interest in automotive technologies and their desire to learn more about this field of study. Sleeping during lecture sessions is not a means to that end. Students are expected to prepare themselves to be active participants in each class session. Sleeping during lectures will be considered an absence and the attendance grade will be reduced accordingly.
  • There will be no make-up test allowed for the final exam.
  • If you are seeking special accommodations based on a disability, you must provide an Accommodations Memorandum from Student Services.
  • Realize that this course belongs to you and your success depends on your full participation.
  • Please feel free to discuss any concerns or problems regarding this course with the instructor.

 

INSTRUCTOR

 

Reg Bennett

Bisdorf/AA Building, Room AA352

703.845.6523

rbennett@nvcc.edu

 

Note!  Instructor office hours are posted on the instructor’s website at www.nvcc.edu/home/rbennett/ or in the reception area of Room AA352.

 

COURSE TEXT CHAPTERS TO BE COVERED

 

  • Chapters 1/2 ---only  AUT266-related topics!
  • Chapter 21, “Tires & Wheels”
  • Chapter 23, “Tire & Wheel Service”
  • Chapter 22, “Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems”
  • Chapter 24, “Suspension System Components & Operation”
  • Chapter 33, “Wheel Alignment Principles”
  • Chapter 25, “Front Suspension & Service”
  • Chapter 26, “Rear Suspension & Service”
  • Chapter 34, “Alignment Diagnosis & Service”
  • Chapter 28, “Steering Columns & Gears”
  • Chapter 29, “Steering Linkage & Service”
  • Chapter 30, “Power Steering Operation & Service”
  • Chapter 31, “Drive Axle/CV Joints”
  • Chapter 32, “Drive Axle/CV Joint Service”
  • Chapter 27, “Electronic Suspension System”

 

ADDITIONAL COURSE INFORMATION

 

  • The college will observe Martin Luther King Day on 01/16/12---no classes!
  • For college emergencies and closings, go to www.nvcc.edu and click on “Closings & Emergencies” at the bottom of the home page.
  • In the event of a late/delayed opening, if there is at least 45 minutes left in the class/lab session, the class will meet at the indicated campus opening time.
  • Last day to drop this class with a tuition refund or change to audit is 01/26/12.
  • Last day to withdraw from this class without a grade penalty is 03/23/12.
  • Last day to apply for graduation for Spring 2012 is 03/01/12.
  • Spring Break for students and faculty is 03/05-11/12---no classes!
  • Classes and examinations end 05/07/12.
  • Automotive safety information, such as safety procedures and material safety data sheets, is located in Room AE117.
  • The instructor and/or the College reserve the right to change the course as deemed appropriate.

 

Note!  The “Academic Calendar” can be accessed from the NOVA homepage!