Course Syllabus

DIET1020 Preventive Maintenance

Course Description

This course introduces preventive maintenance procedures pertaining to medium/heavy duty trucks and heavy equipment. Topics include: engine systems; cab and hood; heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC); electrical and electronics; frame and chassis.

Credit Hours

5

Prerequisites

None

Terms Offered

Every Spring and Summer

Outcomes

Cab and Hood Areas
Inspect key condition and operation of ignition switch
Check warning indicators
Check instruments and record oil pressure and system voltage
Check operation of electronic power take off (PTO) and engine idle speed controls (if applicable)
Check HVAC controls
Check operation of all accessories
Using diagnostic tool or on-board electronic service tool(s) or on-board diagnostic system; retrieve engine monitoring information and check and record diagnostic codes and trip/operational data (including engine, transmission, ABS, and other systems).
Check operation of electric/air horns and reverse warning devices
Check condition of spare fuses, safety triangles, fire extinguisher, and all required decals
Inspect seat belts and sleeper restraints
Inspect wiper blades and arms
Check operation of wiper and washer
Inspect windshield glass for cracks or discoloration and check sun visors
Check seat condition, operation, and mounting
Check door glass and window operation
Inspect steps and grab handles
Inspect mirrors, mountings, brackets, and glass
Record all observed physical damage to components
Perform lubrication of all cab and hood grease fittings
Inspect and lubricate door and hood hinges and latches, strikers, lock cylinders, safety latches, linkages, and cables
Inspect cab mountings, hinges, latches, linkages, and ride height
Perform service as needed
ElectricalElectronics
Inspect battery box(es), cover(s), mountings, hold downs, connections, cables, and cable routing
Perform battery component service as needed
Check and Record battery state-of-charge (open circuit voltage) reading and condition
Perform battery test (load and/or capacitance
Inspect starter mountings and connections
Engage starter checking for unusual noises, starter drag, and starting difficulty
Inspect alternator mountings, cable, wiring, and wire routing
Perform alternator output tests
Check operation of interior lights
Check all exterior lights, lenses, reflectors, and conspicuity tape
Check headlight alignment
Inspect and test tractor-to-trailer multi-wire connectors, cables, and holders
Engine Systems
Observe engine starting/operation (including unusual noises, vibrations, exhaust smoke, etc.); record idle and governed RPM
Inspect vibration damper
Inspect belts, tensioners, and pulleys
Check and adjust belt tension and belt alignment
Check engine oil level, condition, and dipstick seal
Inspect engine mounts for looseness and deterioration
Check engine for oil, coolant, air, fuel, and exhaust leaks (engine off and running)
Check engine compartment wiring harnesses, connectors, and seals for damage and proper routing
Check fuel systems tanks, mountings, lines, caps, and vents
Drain water from the fuel system
Perform service of the water seperator/fuel heater
Perform replacement of fuel filters
Prime and bleed fuel system
Check exhaust system mountings for looseness and damage
Check engine exhaust system for leaks, proper routing, and damaged or missing components to include exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and after treatment devices if equipped
Check air induction system components (piping, charge air cooler, hoses, clamps, and mountings) for air restriction and leaks
Inspect turbocharger for leaks as well as the mountings and connections
Check operation of engine compression/exhaust brake
Perform service or replacement of air filter as needed
Check and reset air filter restriction indicator
Inspect and service crankcase ventilation system
Check operation of the fan clutch
Inspect for air flow restrictions, leaks, and damage as well as its mountings
Inspect fan assembly and shroud
Perform pressure test of cooling system and radiator cap
Inspect coolant hoses and clamps
Inspect coolant recovery system
Check coolant for contamination, additive package concentration, aeration and protection level (freeze point)
Perform service of coolantfilter
Inspect water pump
Perform and engine oil and filter change and visually check oil for coolant or fuel contamination
Inspect and clean magnetic drain plugs
Take an engine oil sample for analysis
Inspect diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system, to include tanks, lines, gauge pump, and filter.
Inspect selective catalyst reduction (SCR) system, including diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) for proper levels, leaks, mounting and connections
Frame and Chassis
Check operation of parking brake
Record air governor cut-in and cut-out setting (psi)
Check operation of air reservoir/tank drain valves
Check air system for leaks (brakes released and brakes applied)
Check overall air system for leaks
Test one-way and double-check valves
Check low air pressure warning devices
Check emergency (spring) brake control/modulator valve if applicable
Check tractor protection valve
Test air pressure build up time
Inspect coupling air lines, holders, and glad hands
Check brake chambers and air lines for secure mounting and damage
Check operation of air drier
Inspect and Record brake shoe/pad condition, thickness, and contamination
Inspect and Record condition of brake drums/rotors
Check antilock brake system wiring, connectors, seals, and harnesses for damage and proper routing
Check operation and adjustment of brake automatic slack adjusters (ASA)
Check and Record push rod stroke
Perform lubrication of all brake component grease fittings
Check condition and operation of hand brake (trailer) control valve, if applicable
Perform antilock brake system (ABS) operational system self-test
Drain air tanks and check for contamination
Check condition of pressure relief (safety) valves
Check master cylinder fluid level and condition
Inspect brake lines, fittings, flexible hoses, and valves for leaks and damage
Check parking brake operation inspecting application and holding devices; adjust as needed
Check operation of hydraulic system:pedal travel, pedal effort, and pedal feel
Inspect calipers for leakage, binding and damage
Inspect brake assist system (booster), hoses and control valves
Check brake reservoir fluid level and condition
Inspect and Record brake lining/pad condition, thickness, and contamination
Inspect and record condition of brake rotors.
Check antilock brake system (ABS) wiring, connectors, seals, and harnesses for damage and proper routing
Check operation of clutch, clutch brake, and gearshift
Check clutch linkage/cable for looseness or binding if applicable
Check hydraulic clutch slave and master cylinders, lines, fittings, and hoses if applicable
Check clutch adjustment and adjust as needed
Check transmission case, seals, filter, hoses, lines, and cooler for cracks and leaks
Inspect transmission breather and mounts
Check transmission oil level, type, and condition
Inspect u-joints, yokes, driveshafts, boots/seals, center bearings, and mounting hardware for looseness, damage, and proper phasing
Inspect axle housings for cracks and leaks
Inspect axle breathers
Perform lubrication of all drive train grease fittings
Check drive axle(s) oil level, type, and condition
ChangePerform drive axle(s) oil and filter/screen if applicable and clean magnetic drain plugs
Check transmission wiring, connectors, seals, and harnesses for damage and proper routing
ChangePerform transmission oil and filter, if applicable: check and clean magnetic drain plugs
Check inter-axle differential lock operation
Check transmission range shift operation
Check steering wheel operation for free play and binding
Check power steering pump, mounting, and hoses for condition, leaks, and proper routing
Check power steering fluid level
Perform power steering fluid and filter change
Inspect steering gear for leaks and secure mountings
Inspect steering shaft u-joints, pinch bolts, splines, pitman arm-to-sterring sector shaft, tie rod ends, and linkages
Check kingpins for wear
Check wheel bearings for looseness and noise
Check oil level and condition in all non-drive hubs
Check for leaks in non-drive hubs
Inspect springs, pins, hangers, shackles, spring u-bolts, and insulators
Inspect shock absorbers for leaks and secure mounting
Inspect air and leaf suspension springs, mounts, hoses, valves, linkages, and fittings for leaks and damage
Check and Record suspension ride height
Perform lubrication of all suspension and steering grease fittings
Check axle locating components (radius, torque and/or track rods)
Inspect tires for wear patterns and proper mounting
Inspect tires for cuts, cracks, bulges, and sidewall damage
Inspect valve caps and stems; determine needed action
Measure and Record tread depth and probe for imbedded debris
Check and Record air pressure
Perform adjustment of tire air pressure in accordance with manufacturers' specifications
Check wheel mounting hardware; determine needed action
Inspect wheels for cracks, damage and proper hand hold alignment
Check tire matching (diameter and tread) on single and dual tire applications
Inspect fifth wheel mounting, bolts, air lines, and locks
Test operation of fifth wheel locking device and adjust if necessary
Check quarter fenders, mud flaps, and brackets
Check pintle hook assembly and mounting, if applicable
Perform lubrication of all fifth wheel grease fittings and plate, if applicable
Inspect frame and frame members for cracks and damage
Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning HVAC
Inspect A/C condenser and lines for condition and visible leaks; check mountings
Inspect A/C compressor and lines for condition and visible leaks; check mountings
Check A/C system condition, operation, and monitoring system if applicable
Check HVAC air inlet filters and ducts
Perform air inlet filter service as needed

Required Textbooks/Materials

HEAVY DUTY  TRUCK SYSTEMS BENNETT 7TH  EDITION  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:

  1. Single Parents - Individual with custody of a minor child or children.
  2. Single Pregnant Women.
  3. 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.
  4. Economically Disadvantaged - Any student who is a Pell Grant recipient, or is receiving federal assistance such as Food Stamps and/or Medicaid.
  5. 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.