Discipline: Automotive Technology Degree Credit  [X]
Non Credit  [ ]
Nondegree Credit  [ ]
Comm Service  [ ]
 

Riverside Community College District
Integrated Course Outline of Record

Automotive Technology 53A


COURSE DESCRIPTION
53A Auto Chassis & Alignment Units: 4.00
 
Prerequisite(s): AUT 50: Automotive Principle or AUB 50: Intro to Auto Body
Theory and principles of automotive chassis components with emphasis placed upon malfunction, abnormal wear diagnosis and correction procedures. 45 hours lecture and 81 hours laboratory.
 
SHORT DESCRIPTION FOR CLASS SCHEDULE
Automotive chassis, components, their wear, malfunctions, diagnosis and corrective procedures.
 
ADVISORY ENTRY SKILLS
Before entering the course, students will be able to:
  1. Describe the basic theory of operation of the modern automobile.

  2. Identify the components of major automotive systems and explain the functions of each.

  3. Use systematic diagnostic procedures to troubleshoot and diagnose problems related to automotive malfunctions.

  4. Perform minor maintenance and service on the automobile.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
 Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

Describe basic theory and operation of the suspension and
steering systems.

Identify and describe the function of the components found in
automotive chassis systems.

Perform suspension system and steering system maintenance and
service including balancing wheels, replacing components, and
performing routine maintenance and service.

Utilize computerized alignment equipment to perform wheel
alignments.

Analyze and correct noise, vibration, and harshness problems in
the automobile chassis.
 
COURSE CONTENT
  TOPICS
 
  1. Front suspension systems
  2. Rear suspension systems
  3. Manual steering systems
  4. Power steering systems
  5. Wheel balancing description, methods, and service
  6. Wheel alignment principles and application
  7. Dynamics of handling
  8. Noise, vibration, and harshness principles and application
 
METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
 Methods of instruction used to achieve student learning outcomes may include, but are not limited to:

  • Presenting lectures and demonstrations by instructor or guests on automotive chassis systems.
  • Utilizing multi-media presentations to demonstrate and simulate complex concepts and    
    procedures.
  • Assigning small group and individual class exercises that enable students to work cooperatively as a team to analyze suspension system problems under the supervision and guidance of the instructor.
  • Assigning special projects outside of class that expose students to environments, tools and methods not available in class.  The projects may include field trips or research projects.
  • Assigning reading outside of textbook material; these may include industry publications, trade magazines, product specifications or equipment manuals.
 
METHODS OF EVALUATION
 Students will be evaluated for progress in and/or mastery of learning outcomes by methods of evaluation which may include, but are not limited to:

  • Hands-on problem-solving exercises that demonstrate students’ ability to evaluate suspension system concern.
  • Practical exercises and laboratory assignments to demonstrate students’ comprehension and application of procedures and techniques.
  • Tests and quizzes that regularly assess students’ comprehension of concepts and industry-specific language.
  • Final applied project that demonstrates students’ proficiency in troubleshooting, diagnosing and repairing suspension and steering systems.
ASSIGNMENTS

Required Reading Assignments


Required Writing Assignments


Other Outside-of-Class Assignments
 
COURSE MATERIALS
 All materials used in this course will be periodically reviewed to ensure that they are appropriate for college level instruction. Possible texts include:

  • Erjavec, Jack. Manual for Automotive Suspension and Steering Systems. 2 ed. any: Thompson Delmar Publishing, 1999.
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