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

Riverside Community College District
Integrated Course Outline of Record

Automotive Technology 71


COURSE DESCRIPTION
71 Ford Electrical/Electronic Systems Units: 4.00
 
Prerequisite: None.
 
This course presents the fundamentals of electrical and electronic systems found in Ford Motor Company vehicles. Includes the use of electrical and electronic system simulators, laboratory oscilloscopes, digital meters and advanced diagnostic tools. Emphasis is on the diagnosis and troubleshooting of electrical and electronic system concerns using Ford-approved and recommended testing methods and equipment. Students will be able to apply the acquired information to the computer systems found on Ford, Lincoln/Mercury and Mazda vehicles, for the diagnosis and repair of major automotive electrical and electronic system components. Total of 54 hours lecture and 54 hours laboratory.
 
SHORT DESCRIPTION FOR CLASS SCHEDULE
Ford automotive electrical and electronic systems fundamentals, including correct use of Ford-specific scanners, electrical and electronic system simulators and advanced diagnostic tools.
 
ADVISORY ENTRY SKILLS
None.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
 Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

Define and apply the concepts of electricity, the atom and its
particles, and how these concepts relate to the electron flow and
the creation of electrical current.

Explain the purpose of the battery, identify its components, and
apply the concepts of polarity and generation.

Demonstrate the proper usage of electrical test equipment to
make accurate measurements.

Perform selected electrical circuit and wiring harness repairs.

Analyze customer concerns with the electrical system and
determine needed repairs.

Define inputs, processing and outputs, and how a system module
processes inputs and selects outputs

Identify digital DC, analog AC and analog DC signals, and define.
the units of measure for electrical signals: hertz, frequency,
amplitude, duty cycle and pulse width, associated with the various
inputs and outputs as directed by the control module.

Navigate the various menus of the Ford’s approved Diagnostic
Tools (NGS and WDS) in order to diagnose, measure, test and
retrieve diagnostic trouble codes from computer controlled
systems.

Describe how networks operate, list the various types of networks.

List types of multiplex networks and define how multiplex networks
operate, also describe the diagnostic capabilities of multiplex
networks, and how the information obtained helps us diagnose
problems related with the electronic systems of today’s
automobiles.
 
COURSE CONTENT
  TOPICS
 
  1. Detail description of operation of the electrical and electronic systems, to include:
    1. Basic electrical theory and operation
    2. Battery starting and charging system theory and operation
    3. Understanding of electronic systems
    4. Networks and multiplexing
    5. Electronic theory and operation
  2. In depth description, operation, and proper name of the components that compose each system
    1. Electrical and electronic basic system components and how they work
    2. Describe the specific function of the battery, electrical generator, built-in regulator, relays, switches, sensors, and electrical actuators, how they work, and how they interact with each other
  3. Study of the various methods for testing the systems and components using logical and approved diagnostic routines and testing equipment
    1. Diagnosis of electronic system
    2. Basic electrical diagnosis routines
    3. Overview of the computer operation strategies
    4. Use and application of NGS and WDS Testers
    5. In depth study of the various electrical diagnostic tools and testing equipment
    6. Hands-on practice of the New Generation Star Tester Operation
  4. Detail instruction for the correct repair procedures
    1. Wire and circuit repair using Ford’s approved procedures.
    2. Logical and systematic approach for repairing or replacing components
    3. Proper use of the NGS and WDS operation and testing
    4.  Comprehension Basic Worldwide Diagnostic Tool (WDS) Operation
    5. Advanced WDS Tool Operation and testing
 
METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
 Methods of instruction used to achieve student learning outcomes may include, but are not limited to:

  • Present class lectures, along with demonstrations in order to assist students in achieving the learning outcomes by using visual and tangible methods, and by reviewing applicable course content.
  • Show videos, films, and or audio tapes in order to give students alternate learning methods and expose them to activities related to the automotive industry and especially to the standard operations of Ford dealers.
  • Create and assign small groups activities such as round table discussions in which students can prepare and exchange challenging questions for other groups. A competition format may be used in this process.  This is done in order to help students achieve outcomes by stimulating individual participation in group activities.
  • Invite guest lectures to class in order to bring current industry experience directly into the classroom and help students attain learning objectives through direct interface with active industry experts.
 
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:

  • Written reports designed to demonstrate in writing the ability to do research and organize material to show mastery of an individual learning outcome such as computer system operation.
  • Oral presentations and written reports designed to give students opportunities to research, analyze and express content related to the various learning objectives.
  • Quizzes, examinations, midterm and final exams designed to assess students’ knowledge of course content for achievement of learning outcomes.
  • Class and individual projects designed to encourage alterative and creative methods for the students to demonstrate achievement of learning outcomes or share knowledge and experience.
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:

  • Basic Electrical Theory and Operation 34S11W0
    Battery Starting and Charging System Theory and Operation 34S12W0
    Electrical Diagnostic Tools and Testing 34S13MO
    Basic Electrical Diagnosis 34S14T0
    Electronic Theory and Operation 34S15W0
    Understanding Electronic Systems 34S16M0
    New Generation Star Tester Operation 34S17W0
    Basic Worldwide Diagnostic Tool Operation 34S18W0
    Electronic Systems Diagnosis 34S19T0
    Networks and Multiplexing 34S20W0

    (All course materials are published and provided by Ford Motor Company.)
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