HQT – Heavy Equipment Technician

Basic Introduction to the theory and operation of mechanical and electronic fuel injection systems as they apply to the heavy-duty diesel engine field, with a focus on operation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair, and safety.

Introduction to the basic principles of electricity, electrical safety, multimeters, Ohm’s Law, magnetism, electrical terminology, operating procedures of analog and digital instruments, schematic reading, chemical and mechanical generation of electricity, starting circuits, charging circuits, voltage regulators, switches, solenoids, and electrical control devices.  Circuit analysis of parallel, series, and series- parallel networks.  Emphasis on diagnosing and locating electrical malfunctions located in a circuit.

Study of the operation, disassembly, evaluation, assembly and various setup procedures and their application to piston pumps.  Course work includes learning to disassemble, explain the operation, evaluate failures, assemble, and perform the various setup procedures on hydraulic valves.  Topics include the various systems on hydraulic equipment and how to read a schematic.  Hands-on practice also includes disassembling, evaluating, learning the various seals of and performing the proper reassembly procedures for hydraulic cylinders.

Explanation and theory of brake systems common to heavy duty vehicles and equipment. Selected topics include air, hydraulic, and anti-lock systems with emphasis on troubleshooting and practical applications of repair and maintenance.

Introduction to the theory of diesel engine operation, mechanical functions, component terminology, and manufacturer’s engine nomenclature.  Focus on basic engine overhaul procedures necessary to service and repair diesel engines.  Additional discussion includes precision measuring, shop safety, proper tool identification and usage as well as fastener identification.

The Diesel Engines Lab course is an introduction to the practical application of basic mechanical operations and procedures, with an emphasis on component nomenclature, correct service, maintenance and safety procedures.

This course covers disc and drum braking system components, brake fluids, electrical controls and parking brake systems.  The student will learn to diagnosis and repair drum and disk brake systems.  Also covered will be diagnosing and repairing the entire hydraulic brake system, which will include the master cylinder, lines, proportioning valves and stop light operation. The student will learn to diagnose and repair power assist units.  This course will cover diagnosis and service of wheel bearings, to include how to replace, clean, repack and adjust wheel bearings. The student will learn to diagnosis, service and repair the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS).  ABS braking concerns caused by vehicle modifications such as tire size, curb weight, and change of final drive ratios will also be covered.

Introduction to the operation and theory of heavy-duty vehicle power train, including transmissions, clutches, drive shafts, differential carriers, axles, tracks, undercarriages, clutch-type steering systems, and final drives. Principles of torque multiplication and bearing adjustment are included, along with shop safety and selecting the correct tooling.

Introduction to heavy-duty electronic systems operation as applied in the heavy equipment/truck industry.  Focus is on electronic fuel systems operation, electronic system operations, integrated electronic systems operation, sensor types and functions, system analysis using Digital Multimeter (DMM) special tooling, PCs, service publications, and schematics.

Introduction to the operation of the most commonly used heavy construction equipment, including safety, pre-operational inspections, start-up, shut-down, and basic operating techniques. Service points, test connection areas, and proper field test procedures ensure safety while operating. Proper vs. improper lifting and/or towing procedures as they apply to construction equipment.