10412144Fundamental Diesel Electrical/Electronic Systems
Course Information
Description
Theory and lab experiences in this course are designed to introduce the student to the diesel electrical/electronic systems used on today's modern trucks and equipment. Fundamental theory of electricity and electronics, troubleshooting techniques, use of a digital multimeter and current clamp, types of electrical circuits, wiring, components, batteries, and the use of wiring diagrams will be covered. Prerequisite: Enrollment permitted only with adequate COMPASS (or equivalent assessment test) scores in reading, writing, math and mechanical reasoning.
Total Credits
3
Course Competencies
  1. Demonstrate safe work habits when working on equipment and vehicle electrical systems.
    Assessment Strategies
    by completing a written objective examination.
    by performing in a simulated work environment.
    Criteria
    Examination includes answers to questions describing the importance of safety when working on equipment and vehicle electrical systems.
    you assume responsibility when working on equipment and vehicle electrical systems
    you comply with all personal and environmental safety practices associated with eye protection
    you come to class prepared every day with appropriate eye protection
    you comply with all personal safety practices associated with foot protection
    you come to class prepared every day with appropriate foot protection
    you comply with all personal safety practices associated with required clothing
    you come to class prepared every day with appropriate clothing
    you comply with all personal and environmental safety practices associated with hand tools
    you comply with all personal and environmental safety practices associated with power equipment
    you comply with all personal and environmental safety practices associated with proper ventilation
    you comply with all personal and environmental safety practices associated with the handling of chemicals/materials in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations
    you comply with all personal and environmental safety practices associated with the storage of chemicals/materials in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations
    you comply with all personal and environmental safety practices associated with the disposal of chemicals/materials in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations

  2. Explain fundamental electrical/electronic system principles.
    Assessment Strategies
    by submitting a mind map explaining fundamental electrical/electronic principles.
    by completing a written objective examination.
    Criteria
    Mind map includes a brief description of the basics of electron flow
    Mind map includes a description of the direction of current flow(conventional theory and electron theory)
    Mind map includes a definition of a conductor, insulator, and semiconductor
    Mind map includes a definition of electricity
    Mind map includes a definition of voltage, the selected function to measure voltage on a multimeter, and how the meter is connected to a circuit
    Mind map includes a definition of current, the selected function to measure current on a multimeter, and how the meter is connected to a circuit
    Mind map includes a definition of resistance the selected function to measure current on a multimeter, and how the meter is connected to a circuit
    Mind map includes a definition of voltage drop and its effect on a circuit
    Mind map includes a definition and mathematical expression of Ohm's Law
    Mind map includes a definition and mathematical expression of Watt's Law
    Mind map includes only relevant and necessary details without being sketchy
    Mind map evidences correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling
    Mind map is typed
    Mind map is neat, attractive, and organized into proper principles

  3. Demonstrate proficient use of a multiimeter (DVOM, DMM) to measure voltage, amperage, and resistance.
    Assessment Strategies
    by replacing the multi-meter battery
    by testing and if needed replacing the multimeter fuses
    by submitting a worksheet on metric conversion for electrical quantities
    by Performing Voltage and Resistance Measurements on a Truck Chassis Electrical Circuit worksheets
    by performing Preliminary Electrical System Checks worksheets
    Criteria
    you recognize safety precautions to be observed while using the multmeter
    you recognize when multimeter battery has failed
    you test multi-meter fuses
    you replace multimeter fuses if needed
    you assume responsibility in the use of the multmeter
    you conform to proper multimeter etiquette
    you explain the different functions of a multimeter
    you explain the proper usage of a multimeter for measuring voltage, current, and resistance
    you identify metric prefixes and abbreviations for measuring voltage, current, and resistance
    Worksheet includes answers for converting to actual values and using a prefix
    Worksheet includes description of equipment or vehicle being tested
    Worksheet includes answers with proper abbreviated labels
    you verify the correct operation of any components you had disconnected from the circuit
    you measure available voltages with key off and engine off
    you measure available voltages with key on and engine off and all accessories off
    you utilize Min/Max feature of multi-meter to measure cranking voltage at the batteries
    you compare voltage measurements at the alternator and dash gauge reading with engine running
    you provide a recommendation of any repairs needed

  4. Investigate series, parallel, and series-parallel circuit laws and circuit faults.
    Assessment Strategies
    by submitting a mind map of the laws for series, parallel, and series-parallel circuits.
    by submitting a mind map identifying and defining 3 circuit faults .
    by completing the Predict Changes in Voltage, Current, and Resistance in a Circuit worksheet
    Criteria
    Mind map includes characteristics of a series circuit.
    Mind map includes characteristics of a parallel circuit.
    Mind map includes characteristics of a series-parallel circuit.
    Mind map includes circuit fault name, definition, and at least two examples of each fault.
    Mind map includes only relevant and necessary details
    Mind map is concise without being sketchy
    Mind map evidences correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling
    Mind map is typed and organized into proper principles
    Worksheet questions are all answered
    Worksheet has 24 of the 30 questions answered correctly.

  5. Correlate electrical/electronic system principles and Ohm's Law to electrical circuits.
    Assessment Strategies
    by completing Ohm's Law worksheets
    through the completion of Electrical/Electronic Modules workpacket using training boards
    Criteria
    Worksheet includes calculations for voltage, amperage, and resistance using Ohm's Law
    Worksheet includes calculations for WATTS, H.P. and other simple electrical/electronic equations
    Worksheet answers solve for the missing element in the circuit
    Worksheet answers are properly labeled
    Worksheet questions are all answered

  6. Determine electrical/electronic test equipment to be used.
    Assessment Strategies
    by selecting the correct piece of test equipment
    through the completion of Electrical/Electronic Modules work packet using training boards
    by completing the circuit tests and the correct evaluation of the condition of the electrical/electronic system has been determined
    Criteria
    you follow all personal and environmental safety practices.
    you select the appropriate tools and equipment.
    you demonstrate the ability to check an electrical/electronic system for opens
    you demonstrate the ability to check an electrical/electronic system for shorts
    you demonstrate the ability to check an electrical/electronic system for high resistance (voltage drop)
    you perform electrical/electronic system tests using ammeter in the correct situation.
    you perform electrical/electronic system tests using a voltmeter in the correct situation.
    you perform electrical/electronic system tests using a ohmmeter in the correct situation.

  7. Differentiate between the basic types of electrical/electronic systems and the components used in them.
    Assessment Strategies
    through the completion of worksheets identifying the different types of electrical/electronic systems on diagrams, schematics, and mobile equipment
    through the completion of worksheets identifying components and parts on demonstration boards, equipment, and vehicles
    through the completion of Electrical/Electronic Modules work packet using training boards
    Criteria
    Worksheet includes an identification of a series type circuit
    Worksheet includes an identification of a parallel type circuit
    Worksheet includes an identification of a series-parallel type circuit
    Worksheet includes an identification of a power source
    Worksheet includes an identification of circuit protection device
    Worksheet includes an identification of a circuit control device
    Worksheet includes an identification of a load control device
    Worksheet includes an identification of a load component
    Worksheet includes an identification of how the circuit is grounded

  8. Summarize the function and operation of electrical/electronic system components and parts.
    Assessment Strategies
    through written objective examination
    through the completion of worksheets
    Criteria
    Examination includes a description of the function of electrical/electronic system components and parts
    Examination includes a description of the operation of electrical/electronic system components and parts
    Worksheet includes a description of the function and operation of an electrical/electronic component or part as it relates to a particular circuit

  9. Construct circuits using electrical/electronic system components and parts.
    Assessment Strategies
    through the completion of Electrical/Electronic Modules work packet using training boards
    through the completion of wiring harness project worksheet
    Criteria
    you follow all personal and environmental safety procedures
    you construct Modules 3-5, 7-10, and 12-16 circuits and circuits are operational
    you use multimeter to measure voltage, current, and resistance for Modules 3-5, 7-10, and 12-16
    you perform all critical steps in the right order
    you verbalize an explanation of the process as you perform it
    your explanation presents sound reasoning as you describe the decisions you make throughout the process
    you submit a rough draft schematic including all components before making the harness
    Schematic operates properly on paper
    Schematic includes straight lines connecting components
    Project wiring harness is cut to proper lengths
    Project wiring harness is color coded per circuit
    Project wiring harness has wires grouped together
    Project wire harness has no circuit faults: opens, shorts, or high resistance
    you submit a final copy schematic specific to your project
    Schematic includes the correct symbols for each component
    Schematic operates properly on paper
    Schematic includes straight lines connecting components

  10. Interpret electrical/electronic system symbols, schematics, and diagrams.
    Assessment Strategies
    by completing electrical/electronic symbols worksheets
    by completing Delco Remy starting system diagram
    by tracing current flow through an electrical/electronic circuits on OEM schematics or diagrams
    by completing Machine Electronics test
    Criteria
    Worksheet identifies the shown schematic symbol by name
    Worksheet includes additional means of showing a particular symbol
    you locate the component that is represented by the symbol on a piece of equipment and/or vehicle
    Worksheet includes a brief description of the function and operation of the component as it relates to circuit operation
    Worksheet includes identification of sub circuits within starting system
    Worksheet includes sub circuits properly color coded
    you verbally describe to the instructor, the proper operation of the circuit starting at the battery and ending at the starter motor
    you interpret electrical/electronic symbols
    you color code each specific circuit using different colors for different scenarios

  11. Maintain electrical/electronic system terminals, connectors, wire, and cable.
    Assessment Strategies
    through the completion of wiring harness worksheet
    through the completion of battery cable replacement
    through the completion of soldering repair worksheet
    Criteria
    you follow all personal and environmental safety procedures
    Wire harness includes proper length wire
    Wire harness includes the correct selection of terminals for the gage (size) of wire
    Wire harness includes the correct gage (size) of wire
    Wire harness includes the correct amount of insulation stripped from wire
    Wire harness includes heat shrink where necessary
    Wire harness includes proper crimping of terminals to wire
    Wire harness withstands strength test
    Wire harness includes the proper type of protective loom
    Battery cable selection is the correct gage (size) for circuit requirements
    Battery cable selection is the correct length
    Battery cable has the proper amount of insulation removed
    Battery cable terminals are orientated before they are crimped
    Battery cable terminals are correct for the gage (size) of cable
    Battery cable terminals are correct diameter for their connection points
    Battery cable terminals are crimped using the correct crimping dies
    Battery cable has solder applied to inside of both terminal ends
    Battery cable includes adequate amount of heat shrink
    Battery cable includes heat shrink that has not been overheated
    Soldering repair includes the removal of the damaged section of wire
    Soldering repair includes the placement of the correct size and length of heat shrink over the two ends of the wire
    Soldering repair includes a small overlap of the two splice ends
    Soldering repair includes a splice clip if needed
    Soldering repair includes the correct amount of insulation removed from the wire
    Soldering repair includes a uniform amount of solder applied to the joint
    Soldering repair includes heat shrink over the splice joint
    Soldering repair includes heat shrink that has not been overheated

  12. Perform required maintenance and service on equipment and vehicle heavy duty batteries.
    Assessment Strategies
    by performing battery maintenance
    by testing batteries
    by charging batteries
    by returning equipment or vehicle to service
    through the completion of Battery Inspection and Testing worksheets
    Criteria
    you demonstrate all safety precautions and rules associated with servicing a battery.
    you record battery specifications.
    you perform a visual inspection and describe the general appearance of the battery, cables, terminals, hold downs, and boxes.
    you check the tightness of the cables at both ends and describe the condition.
    you perform a battery leakage test.
    you record meter readings and an explanation of what is indicated by the readings.
    you perform a battery voltage test.
    you record meter readings and summarize the condition of the battery based upon the visual inspection and test.
    Worksheets are filled out in order and are complete
    you describe the equipment or truck being worked on
    you record battery specifications
    you DIAGRAM BATTERY ARRANGEMENT AND SHOW DIAGRAM TO THE INSTRUCTOR BEFORE DISCONNECTING
    you remove, clean, and replace batteries in a single and multiple battery system
    you perform a battery state of charge test using a refractometer and determine the specific gravity of each cell
    you compare cell readings to determine if a load test should be performed
    you determine the correct load to be placed on battery
    you perform battery capacity (load, high discharge) test and determine needed service
    you perform a three-minute charge test if battery failed load test
    you make recommendations on battery condition and reusability
    you determine correct procedures for disposal of batteries and battery electrolyte
    you clean, repair, and replace battery cables and connectors
    you charge battery using slow and/or fast method on single battery, multiple batteries, series hookup, and/or parallel hookup
    you clean, repair, and replace battery boxes, mounts, and hold downs
    you jump start a vehicle using jumper cables and a booster pack or auxiliary power unit
    you select the correct batteries and install them in equipment or vehicle
    you connect battery(s) according to your battery arrangement diagram
    you verify correct battery performance while in equipment or vehicle
    Worksheets are filled out in order and are complete

  13. Troubleshoot single battery systems
    Assessment Strategies
    by completing a written objective examination
    by performing a battery discharge test (load test) while isolated
    by performing a battery discharge test (load test) while connected
    Criteria
    you perform  a visual inspection of the battery prior to any testing
    you maintain an awareness of your shop surrounding during the procedure
    you position the load tester a safe distance from the battery
    you verify the carbon pile load control knob is off prior to making a connection to the battery
    you install battery terminal stud adaptors (if applicable)
    you connect the positive lead to the positive terminal of the battery first
    you connect the negative lead to the negative terminal of the battery last
    you connect the current clamp to one of the load tester cables
    you observe the battery O.C.V.
    you determine the correct load to be applied to the battery
    you “zero out” the amperage display
    you apply a load to the battery (1/2 of CCA’s)
    you apply the load for 15 seconds
    you observe the lowest load test voltage at the end of 15 seconds while loaded
    you compare the voltage reading to the corrected-for-temperature minimum voltage requirements
    you monitor battery voltage (bounce-back) immediately after the load test
    you remove the current clamp
    you disconnect the negative lead to negative terminal of the battery first
    you disconnect the positive lead to the positive terminal of the battery last
    you roll up the current clamp, positive lead, and negative lead and hang on load tester
    you followed all safety procedures during the process

  14. Troubleshoot series battery configurations
    Assessment Strategies
    by completing a written objective examination

  15. Troubleshoot parallel battery configurations
    Assessment Strategies
    by completing a written objective examination

This Outline is under development.