DIET1040 Diesel Truck and Heavy Equipment HVAC Systems

Course Description

This course introduces systems used in medium/heavy duty trucks and heavy equipment. Classroom instruction on HVAC theory and operation along with local, state, and federal regulations are strongly emphasized. Topics include: HVAC safety, HVAC system theory and operation, A/C system component diagnosis and repair, HVAC system diagnosis and repair, HVAC operating systems and related controls, and refrigeration recovery, recycling, and handling procedures.

Credit Hours

Prerequisites

None

Terms Offered

Every Semester

Outcomes

AC System Component Diagnosis and Repair

Identify causes of temperature control problems in the A/C system; determine needed action P-1

Identify refrigerant and lubricant types and check for contamination; determine needed action P-1

Identify A/C system problems indicated by pressure gauge and temperature readings; determine needed action P-1

Identify A/C system problems indicated by visual, audible, smell, and touch procedures; determine needed action P-1

Perform A/C system leak test: determine needed repairs P-1

Perform evacuation, recovery, and recharge of A/C system using appropriate equipment P-1

Identify contamination in the A/C system components; determine needed action P-3

Identify A/C system problems that cause protection devices (pressure, thermal, and elctronic) to interrupt system operation; determine needed action P-1

Inspect, test, and replace A/C system pressure, thermal, and electronic protection devices P-2

Inspect and replace A/C compressor drive belts, pulleys, and tensioners P-1

Perform adjustment of A/C belttension and check alignment P-1

Inspect, test, adjust, service, or replace A/C compressor clutch components or assembly P-2

Inspect and correct A/C compressor lubricant level

Inspect, test, or replace A/C compressor

Inspect, repair, or replace A/C compressor mountings and hardware P-2

Correct system lubricant level when replacing the evaporator, condenser, receiver/drier, or accumulator drier, and hoses P-1

Inspect A/C system hoses, lines, filters, fittings, and seals; determine needed action P-1

Inspect and test A/C system condenser; check for proper airflow and mountings; determine needed action

Inspect and replace receiver/drier or accumulator/drier P-1

Inspect and test cab/sleeper refrigerant solenoid and expansion valve(s) P-3

Check placement of thermal bulb (capillary tube) and determine needed action P-3

Perform removal and replacement of orifice tube P-1

Inspect and test cab/sleeper evaporator core; determine needed action P-3

Inspect, clean, or repair evaporator housing and water drain P-1

Inspect, service/replace evaporator air filter P-1

Identify and inspect A/C system service ports (gauge connections); determine needed action P-1

Identify the cause of system failures resulting in refrigerant loss from the A/C system high pressure releif device; determine needed action P-2

Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning HVAC Safety

Comply with personal and environmental safety practices associated with clothing, eye protection, hand protection, proper lifting practices, hand tools, power equipment, proper ventilation, and the handling, storage, and disposal of fuels/chemicals/materials in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations

HVAC Operating Systems and Related Controls

Identify causes of HVAC electrical control system problems, determine needed action P-1

Inspect and test HVAC blower motors, resistors, switches, relays, modules, wiring, and protection devices; determine needed action P-2

Inspect and test A/C compressor clutch relays, modules, wiring, sensors, switches, diodes, and protection devices; determine needed action P-2

Inspect and test A/C related electronic engine control systems; determine needed action P-2

Inspect and test engine cooling/condensor fan motors, relays, modules, switches, sensors, wiring, and protection devices; determine needed action P-3

Inspect and test electric actuator motors, relays, modules, switches, sensors, wiring, and protection devices; determine needed action

Inspect and test HVAC system electrical/electronic control panel assemblies; determine needed action

Identify causes of HVAC air and mechanical control problems; determine needed action P-3

Inspect and test HVAC system air and mechanical control panel assemblies; determine needed action P-3

Inspect, test, and adjust HVAC system air and mechanical control cables and linkages; determine needed action P-3

Inspect and test HVAC system actuators and hoses; determine needed action P-3

Inspect, test, and adjust HVAC system ducts, doors, and outlets; determine needed action P-3

HVAC System Diagnosis

Identify causes of outlet air temperature control problems in the HVAC system; determine needed action P-1

Identify window fogging problems; determine needed action P-2

Perform engine cooling system tests for leaks, protection level, contamination, coolant level, coolant type, temperature, and conditioner concentration; determine needed action P-1

Inspect engine cooling and heating system hoses, lines, and clamps; determine needed action P-1

Inspect and test radiator, pressure cap, and coolant recovery system (surge tank); determine needed action P-1

Inspect water pump; determine needed action

Inspect and test thermostats, by-passes, housings, and seals; determine needed repairs P-2

Perform recovery, flushing, and refilling of cooling system with recommended coolant/additive package and then bleed cooling system P-1

Inspect thermostatic cooling fan system (hudraulic, pneumatic, and electronic) and fan shroud; replace as needed P-2

Inspect and test heating system coolant control valve(s) and manual shut-off valves; determine needed action P-2

Perform inspection and flushing of heater core; determine needed action P-3

HVAC System Theory and Operation

Verify the need for service or repair of HVAC systems based on unusual operating noises; determine needed action P-1

Verify the need for service or repair of HVAC systems based on unusual visual, smell, and touch conditions; determine needed action P-1

Identify system type and components (cycling clutch orifice tube - CCOT, expansion valve, etc.) and conduct performance tests to determine needed action P-1

Interface with vehicle's on-board computer; perform diagnostic procedures usingrecommended electronic service tool(s) (including PC based software and/or data scan tools); determine needed action

Refrigerant Recovery Recycling and Handling

Perform maintenance and verify correct operation of certified HVAC equipment P-1

Identify and recover A/C system refrigerant P-1

Demonstrate recycling or proper disposal of refrigerant P-1

Perform handling, labeling and storage of refrigerant P-1

Test recycled refrigerant for non-condensable gases P-1

Required Textbooks/Materials

Heavy Duty Truck Systems 7th Edition

Sean Bennett

978-1-3377-8710-9

Cengage

Institutional Mission

Atlanta Technical College, a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, provides lifelong educational opportunities and experiences through academic and innovative career preparation, service learning, and multiple program delivery modalities that lead to technical certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees and make student development and success possible in a competitive global economy

Required Technology

Participation in online courses requires reliable technology that meets current Blackboard Ultra and Respondus LockDown Browser standards.

A desktop or laptop computer running a supported operating system is required: Windows 10 or 11, macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, or Chrome OS. Tablets and smartphones may be used to check announcements or view content; however, these devices are not reliable for completing assignments, quizzes, or exams, and some tools may not function as expected. Chromebooks may allow basic access but do not support all features or proctored testing tools.

The latest version of Google Chrome is the recommended browser for Blackboard Ultra. Browsers should be kept up to date, with cookies and pop-ups enabled for full functionality.

A stable broadband internet connection (DSL or cable recommended) is required. A wired connection is strongly advised during tests or video conferencing sessions to prevent interruptions.

Recommended software includes Microsoft 365 (available to ATC students at no cost), Adobe Acrobat Reader for viewing PDF files, and up-to-date audio and video drivers for multimedia use. Systems should maintain current antivirus protection and regular updates to ensure compatibility and security.

For best performance, browsers should be cleared of cached data regularly, and Blackboard’s Browser Checker (available on the Blackboard login page) should be used to verify system compatibility.

Blackboard

Once you have access to Blackboard you will be enrolled in the Student Learning Community Organization (SLC). The SLC offers Blackboard training and other valuable college resources.

Select this link to review the Bb Technical Support Guide

Attendance

The educational programs at Atlanta Technical College reflect those requirements and standards that are necessary for future successful employment in business and industry. Employers expect their employees to be present and to be on time for work each and every day. Likewise, Atlanta Technical College expects each student to be present and to be on time each and every day for all classes. Absences prevent students from receiving full course benefits, disrupt orderly course progress, and diminish the quality of group interaction in class. The college considers both tardiness and early departure from class as forms of absenteeism.

Instructors have both the right and the responsibility to develop reasonable attendance expectations appropriate to the type, level, delivery method, and frequency of class meetings for their courses; communicate the expectations to students clearly via their syllabi addenda; and apply the consequences of failing to meet the expectations fairly and consistently to all enrolled students.

Instructors are responsible for determining whether work missed may be made up, and any make-up work allowed is scheduled at the discretion of instructors. Procedures for make-up work are detailed in syllabi addenda.

Documented absences for military duty, observed religious holidays, judicial proceedings in response to a subpoena, summons for jury duty, or other court-ordered process which requires the attendance of the student at the judicial proceeding are excused. Students absent from class for any reason are still responsible for all work missed. Students should enroll only in those classes that they can reasonably expect to attend on a regular basis.

Students who stop attending classes without officially withdrawing from class risk earning a final grade of F. If a student does not officially withdraw the instructor may issue a final grade of F and the last date of attendance, which will be last day that the student attended class or participated in an academically related activity.

In the event of severe weather or other emergencies, students are expected to continue participating in learning activities via Blackboard, @student.atlantatech.edu email account, or other modality.

Failure to attend class the first week may result in students being turned in as no-shows. See No-Show Policy for further information.

Course Withdrawal

WITHDRAWAL POLICY

The sole responsibility to officially withdraw from any class(es) or the College lies with the student. The effective date of withdrawal is the date the student notifies the college of the withdrawal.
Students have the privilege of dropping a course during the first three instructional days of each semester, through their BANNERWEB account, without the drop becoming a part of your permanent academic record and without it affecting your financial aid.

Please remember, any amount charged against student financial aid (PELL/Scholarships...etc.) in the bookstore will be owed back to the College.

The following criteria has been established for students who elect to withdraw after the third day of classes:

Beginning the fourth day of the term and through 60% of the term, students can withdraw from classes via their BANNERWEB account. Students who elect to withdraw during this period will receive a grade of “W” on the official academic record and will not receive a refund of applicable tuition and fees.
After the “W” (or 60%) through the end of the term (last day of class), students can withdraw from classes via their BANNERWEB account. Students who elect to withdraw during this period will receive a grade of “F” on the official academic record and will not receive a refund of applicable tuition and fees.
Students are prohibited from withdrawing from any class(es) during final exam week.

Students who choose to not withdraw from classes will be classified as abandoning the course. Abandoning a course instead of following official withdrawal procedures may result in a failing grade assigned by the instructor and financial aid adjustments to the student’s account, if applicable.

HARDSHIP WITHDRAWAL

The intent of a “Hardship Withdrawal” is to remove the negative effect of absences that are beyond the control of the student - if those absences affected the student’s ability to withdraw by the deadline or occurred after the posted withdrawal deadline.
The hardship withdrawal submission period opens after the W (or 60%) posted date. A hardship withdrawal, if approved, is defined as a withdrawal after the 60% deadline. A student may petition for a hardship withdrawal by submitting the “Hardship Withdraw Request Form” from the Office of the Registrar. Hardship withdrawals MUST be requested no later than the end of the following semester for which the withdrawal is requested.
• (e.g.- to submit a request for a Spring Semester course, the Office of the Registrar must receive the request no later than the last day of the Summer Semester).
Examples of a reason to submit a hardship withdrawal includes, but is not limited to, hospitalization of the student, death in the immediate family, or military duty. A request must include verifying documentation of the extenuating circumstances.
If a hardship withdrawal is requested/granted, it will include all classes for the given term. Only one hardship withdrawal is allowed per student while enrolled at ATC. The final decision as decided by the Office of Academic & Student Affairs regarding the hardship withdrawal is final and not subject to appeal.

Grading Scale

Grades are issued at the end of each semester. A grade of "C" or better is required for most programs in all classes for graduation. However, there are some programs that may require a “B” or better; therefore, it is recommended that students consult with their specific program advisor.

Grades	Numerical Equivalent	Grade Points
A	90-100	4
B	80-89	3
C	70-79	2
D	60-69	1
F	0-59	0

Other grades allowed by Atlanta Technical College include:

EX	Exempted by Examination	Not Computed
W	Withdrew	Not Computed (Only Given Before 60% Deadline)
TR	Transfer Credit	Not Computed (Displayed as TRA, TRB, or TRC – See Below)
AU	Audited	Not Computed
S	Satisfactory	Not Computed
U	Unsatisfactory	Not Computed
I	Incomplete*	Not Computed

*Course Requirements for removal of an incomplete must be satisfactorily completed prior to the following semester’s mid-term date.

I Indicates that student has an "incomplete" but has satisfactorily completed a substantial portion of the course work. For NON-ACADEMIC reasons beyond their control, the student has not been able to complete some specific part or amount of the work required. An "I" must be satisfactorily changed to a letter grade by the midpoint of the next semester, or it will be changed to the grade of "F" by the Office of Enrollment Services. Students must get approval from the instructor prior to the end of the semester to be eligible for an "I" grade. No credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

IP Indicates that a course continues beyond the end of the semester. An “IP” must be satisfactorily changed to a letter grade by the midpoint of the next semester, or it will be changed to the grade of “F” by the Office of Enrollment Services. No Credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

W Students who withdraw before the 60% point of the semester receive a grade of “W” Withdrew. No credit is given and no grade points are calculated.

EXE Indicates that a student has exempted a course through examination or through the articulated Tech Prep programs. Credit is given but grade points are not calculated. Instructors must submit an Exemption Form to the Office of Enrollment Services to report an exemption.

EXP Indicates the student has been awarded transfer credit though essential learning/prior learning assessment

TR Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from AP. CLEP or IB examinations.

TRA, TRB, TRC Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from another institution. Credit is given but no grade points are calculated. If a student earns credit for a course taken at Atlanta Technical College for which transfer credit has been awarded, then the transfer credit will be deleted from the student's record.

TRM Indicates that a student has been awarded transfer credit from their military experience.

AC Indicates articulated credit earned by students as a part of formal articulation agreements.

AU Indicates an audited course. No grade is given, no credit hours are earned and grade points are not calculated. Auditing a course must be initiated during the registration process. Approval for an audit cannot be granted after participation in classroom instruction. Instructors must submit an Audit Form to the Office of Enrollment Services to report an audit. Audited classes are not eligible for financial aid.

Z indicates students whose academic performance was affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic. A grade of Z is the functional equivalent of a grade of W; the course in which a student received a Z grade does factor into total credit hours attempted for financial aid calculations but does not affect overall GPA.

Student Handbook

All policies and procedures are listed in the Student Handbook, including procedures for filing a grievance. Select this link to review the Student Handbook .

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is expected at all times. Any student found to have engaged in academic misconduct such as cheating, plagiarism, or collusion is subject to disciplinary sanctions as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct detailed in the ATC Catalog and Student Handbook.

Essential Workplace Skills

A Workplace Essential Skills grade will be given each semester for specified courses. The Workplace Essential Skills grade will not affect the academic grade point average (GPA) of a student; that is, Workplace Essential Skills grades remain separate from academic grades. Workplace Essential Skills grades will be reported each semester.

The Workplace Essential Skills program is designed to evaluate and encourage good work habits that ensure job retention and career advancement.

Employability skills refer to the basic academic, interpersonal, reasoning, problem solving skills, and Workplace Essential Skills that, when transferred to the occupational settings, facilitate job acquisition, retention, and advancement.

The Essential Workplace Skills:

1. Leadership
2. Communication
3. Organization
4. Productivity
5. Teamwork
6. Professionalism
7. Resourcefulness

Students of core and program courses will receive a Workplace Essential Skills grade. Instructors will give Workplace Essential Skills assignments throughout the semester. Workplace Essential Skills grades are optional for developmental courses and for grades of W, WF, or WP. Workplace Essential Skills grades will not be used for grades of AC, AU, EX, I, IP, or TR.

Approved Workplace Essential Skills Grades

3 = Exceeds Expectations

2 = Meets Expectations

1 = Needs Improvement

0 = Unacceptable

Bookstore

Most books and supplies are available at the college bookstore. Books may be purchased there or rented at a reduced rate: Atlanta Tech Bookstore

Learning Resources

The student is expected and encouraged to use the school library which is located on the main campus in building G. The library has media equipment for faculty and staff use for instructional purposes. There are over 130 computers, a multimedia room equipped with audio and audiovisual resources, and printing, copying, faxing, and scanning services. Seating is available throughout the library along with study carrels, six study rooms for reserve, one conference room and a Digital Classroom used for class instruction. Atlanta Technical College's library operating hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Students may use the library located at Atlanta Metropolitan State College, or any other library within their access, to gather further information about the topic under discussion in class, or about any topic of interest to the student. If a particular resource cannot be obtained at the ATC Library, a student may use the Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service to locate the item(s). This service borrows books, articles and other resources from other libraries within the region. The ILL form may be accessed via the webpage under the Library’s home page. Students are also expected and encouraged to use available Internet resources, as well as relevant periodicals, books, and electronic resources. Most course textbooks may be checked out for a two-hour, in-house library use only.

Tutorial Support

Tutorial support is available by each instructor during designated office hours. Remediation/tutorial support may be teacher or student initiated depending on the student’s progress. Several programs of study offer services through peer counselors and mentors. Atlanta Technical College also offers math, English, reading, and study skills tutorials through the Academic Success Center. Located in room 2118, the Academic Success Center provides an open study area, face-to-face tutorial, Internet access, and various tutorial computer software. Students may also find out how to access our 24/7 online tutorial programs by visiting the Academic Success Center. The Academic Success Center’s operating hours are Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.; Friday, 9:00a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Financial Aid

The Financial Aid office is located in the Dennard Building, Room 125, and the phone number is 404.225.4716. Financial Aid information, resources, and specialists are located on our Atlanta Tech website: Financial Aid.

For information about tuition & fees, refunds and payment plans visit The Office of Student Accounts.

Non-Discrimination Policy

As set forth in its student catalog, Atlanta Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, veteran status, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). For further information regarding these laws (Title VI and IX) contact the College's Title IX, Section 504 Coordinator in the Student Support Services office in the Academic Building, Suite C1109.

For more information about Title VI and Title IX, contact the College’s Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator in the Student Support Services Office, Academic Building, Suite C1109.

American with Disabilities Act

Atlanta Technical College strives to provide equal access to education for all students. Students with a documented disability are eligible to receive reasonable academic adjustments and auxiliary aids in the classroom and/or for testing at Atlanta Technical College once the appropriate documentation of the disability has been submitted to the Director of Student Services.

To request reasonable accommodations upon enrollment (Section 504/ADA), please contact the Resource Accommodation Specialist located in the Student Support Services office at Atlanta Technical College, Academic and Student Affairs Division, Academic Building, Suite C1109.

Special Populations

Special Populations services are available to meet the needs of qualifying students. Services include but are not limited to workshops and training on educational, employability, and life skills; institutional and community resources and referrals; and resource fairs. Special populations include:

Single Parents - Individual with custody of a minor child or children.
Single Pregnant Women.
Displaced Homemakers - Adults who have been dependent on the income of a family member and no longer supported by that income, have been performing unpaid labor in the home and as a result have diminished marketable skills, and have difficulty securing employment.
Economically Disadvantaged - Any student who is a Pell Grant recipient, or is receiving federal assistance such as Food Stamps and/or Medicaid.
Individuals with other barriers to educational achievement, including individuals with limited English proficiency.

Please complete the Special Populations form State Enrollment System Information Form if you would like more information on the types of services available and if you qualify.

The Atlanta Technical College Resource Accommodation Specialist is located in the Student Support Services office in the Academic and Student Affairs Division, Academic Building, Suite C1109.

Warranty

Curriculum standards have been developed with direct involvement of business and industry. These standards serve as the industry-validated specifications for each occupational program. The TCSG guarantee to every one of our students is this: If one of our graduates educated under a standard program or his/her employer finds that the graduate is deficient in one or more competencies as defined in the standards, the technical college will retrain the employee at no instructional cost to the employee or the employer. This guarantee is in effect for a period of two years after graduation.

Accreditation

Atlanta Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Atlanta Technical College may also offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Atlanta Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Continuation of Instruction Plan

All classes at Atlanta Technical College use the Blackboard Learning Management System which allows for the continuation of classes even if the school is closed due to inclement weather or any other reason. In the event of school closure, continue to work on your class through Blackboard and be sure to check your Blackboard course and student email for class information from your instructor.