competency in skills and knowledge through assessment tests,
but are not required to complete a specific number of hours.
Diesel Technician
USDOL
Work Process Content
On the Job Training
Select tools, equipment, or technologies for use in operations or projects.
1
- Use hand tools, such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, pressure gauges, or precision instruments, as well as power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, welding equipment, or jacks and hoists.
Inspect mechanical components of vehicles to identify problems.
4
- Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
- Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, or pressure gauges.
- Inspect, repair, and maintain automotive and mechanical equipment and machinery, such as pumps and compressors.
- Inspect and verify dimensions and clearances of parts to ensure conformance to factory specifications.
Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment.
1
- Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
Adjust vehicle components according to specifications.
3
- Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.
- Adjust or repair computer-controlled exhaust emissions devices.
- Repair or adjust seats, doors, or windows.
Test mechanical equipment to ensure proper functioning.
2
- Attach test instruments to equipment and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.
- Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, or pressure gauges.
Lubricate equipment to allow proper functioning.
1
- Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
Service vehicles to maintain functionality
1
- Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery. Complete vehicle inspection.
Adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
1
- Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.
Observe equipment in operation to detect potential problems.
1
- Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, or pressure gauges.
Repair non-engine automotive or vehicle components.
4
- Diagnose and repair vehicle heating and cooling systems.
- Inspect, repair, and maintain automotive and mechanical equipment and machinery, such as pumps and compressors.
- Install or repair accessories.
- Repair or adjust seats, doors, or windows.
Operate transportation equipment to demonstrate function or malfunction.
1
- Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
Rewire electrical or electronic systems.
1
- Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
Troubleshoot equipment or systems operation problems.
1
- Diagnose and repair vehicle heating and cooling systems.
Repair defective engines or engine components.
3
- Disassemble and overhaul internal combustion engines, pumps, generators, transmissions, clutches, and differential units.
- Complete major engine component rebuild.
- Specialize in repairing and maintaining parts of the engine, such as fuel injection systems.
Dismantle heavy equipment or machinery.
1
- Disassemble and overhaul internal combustion engines, pumps, generators, transmissions, clutches, and differential units.
Measure distances or dimensions.
1
- Inspect and verify dimensions and clearances of parts to ensure conformance to factory specifications.
Service green vehicles to make repairs or maintain good working order.
2
- Adjust or repair computer-controlled exhaust emissions devices.
- Maintain or repair vehicles with alternative fuel systems, including biodiesel, hybrid, or compressed natural gas vehicles.
Measure equipment outputs.
1
- Measure vehicle emissions to determine whether they are within acceptable limits.
Monitor resources.
1
- Follow green operational practices involving conservation of water or energy or reduction of solid waste.
Rebuild parts or components.
1
- Recondition and replace internal engine parts and assemble as needed.
Replace worn, damaged, or defective mechanical parts.
1
- Recondition and replace internal drivetrain parts.
Install vehicle parts or accessories.
2
- Install or repair accessories.
- Evaluate tire condition.
Repair tires.
1
- Prepare repair strategy for tire discrepancy.
Align equipment or machinery.
1
- Align front ends and suspension systems.
Grind parts to required dimensions.
1
- Operate flywheel grinder and measure components.
Related Instruction Content
Training Provider(s):
Introduction to Diesel
64
Introduction to Diesel is designed to introduce the diesel engine. Engine development, history, operation theories, and basic subsystems and component nomenclature are covered. Knowledge of basic repair procedures and use of various tools for testing and measuring in both English and metric systems of measurement are examined.
Electrical Systems
64
Electrical Systems is designed to introduce the electrical system requirements for diesel powered vehicles and equipment. Batteries, starting and charging systems as well as circuitry and basic electronics are covered.
Hydraulic
32
Hydraulic/Air Brakes is designed to introduce the braking systems of vehicles that use both hydraulic and compressed air actuation. Component operation repair and testing are covered. Basic hydraulic and pneumatic systems, which are in common use on vehicles, are also covered.
Chassis/Driveline
64
Chassis/Driveline is designed to introduce the truck chassis and methods used to integrate various components into the vehicle. Power flow from the clutch, drive shaft and rear axles to the wheels as well as steering and suspension systems are covered.
Fuel Systems
64
Fuel Systems is designed to provide information about diesel fuel injection systems. Mechanical and electronic injection systems, which are commonly used throughout the diesel industry, are studied. Basic system design, pump operation, and tune-up adjustments are covered. Computer diagnostics and software applications used in relation to the heavy-duty engine maker are covered.
Air Conditioning
16
Air Conditioning/Refrigeration is designed to introduce the theories of mechanical refrigeration/heating systems. Application to vehicle climate control and trailer refrigeration/heating and system service procedures are covered. (2/0)
Transmission/Drive Axle
64
Transmissions/Drive Axle is designed to provide knowledge of in-depth operational theories, diagnosis, and repair procedures of heavy-duty truck transmissions and rear drive axles. Specific operational features and repair procedures of the popular units in use today are presented. Transmissions, air shifting, power dividers, two-speed axles, and other related equipment are covered.
Preventative Maintenance
32
Preventative Maintenance is designed to introduce the student to the concept and objectives of a complete preventative maintenance inspection and repair program. The inspection, documentation, record keeping, and repair procedures will be covered. (2/0)
Air Brakes
32
Hydraulic/Air Brakes is designed to introduce the braking systems of vehicles that use both hydraulic and compressed air actuation. Component operation repair and testing are covered. Basic hydraulic and pneumatic systems, which are in common use on vehicles, are also covered.
Refrigeration
16
Air Conditioning/Refrigeration is designed to introduce the theories of mechanical refrigeration/heating systems. Application to vehicle climate control and trailer refrigeration/heating and system service procedures are covered. (2/0)