Syllabus - Winter 2011

Introduction to Engine Performance Automotive Course # AU3.314

Instructor: Tonia Haney Class Schedule: Fri. 8:00 - 11:50 am, or Fri. 1:00 pm 4:50 pm Office Hours: None: I will be available before and after class, or by phone/e-mail Cell Phone: 971-226-6605 E-mail: Tonia_L_Haney@yahoo.com

Course Description:
This class will introduce you to the basics of how a gasoline engine starts and runs efficiently. We will delve into electrical systems, compression theory, ignition systems and fuel delivery systems with an introduction into computer controls. In lab, we will practice the use of diagnostic equipment used by automotive professionals to help determine why an engine will not start, or runs poorly. We will use a combination of classroom discussions and powerpoints along with lab demonstrations and lab practice to help promote understanding.

Course Objective:
Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to: 1) Understand the operational principles of a gasoline engine as it relates to ignition, compression, and fuel delivery. 2) Identify the cause of a non-starting vehicle. 3) Practice Safety. 4) Communicate clearly and professionally with team members and customers.

Instructor Philosophy:
I believe in education by discovery. I view my position as a guide to give you enough information to start, and expect you learn through practice and research. I will provide you with the tools and knowledge. Your learning experience will based on how much effort you put forth. As the saying goes, you only gain what you give.

Text Requirements:
None - See below for Learning Resources

Tool Requirements:
A student must possess a basic hand tool set as outlined in the Required Tools list. These tools must be available to the student while working in the lab. Specialty and diagnostic equipment will be made available for lab practice.

Safety Requirements:
Safety practices are strictly enforced. The student is responsible to practice: 1) Eye protection at all times while in the lab. No Exceptions! 2) Safe use of air/electric powered tools and cords. 3) Use of Jack Stands any time the vehicle is raised by use of floor jacks. 4) Good housekeeping. Clean up your messes. Wipe up oil and grease spills. 5) Sound fire precautions. Know the location of fire extinguishers and fire exits. 6) Sound footwear. Non-slip soles and steel-toe boots recommended. Open toe shoes prohibited in lab environment. 7) No loose clothing or jewelry while working on running engine or rotating equipment. If you have long hair, tie it back. 8) Refrain from talking to anyone operating machinery. Wait until that person is done before asking for their attention.

Student Responsibilities:
Pass/No Pass (P/NP): must be selected by Mid Term. This option should be discussed with an Advisor. INC or Y: Any student wanting an INC or Y must discuss this matter with the instructor outside of class. This is at the discretion of the instructor. W: The student must select this grade prior to Mid Term (to receive a tuition refund the student must withdraw before the date stated in the course schedule).

Attendance Policy:
Attendance in this class is mandatory in order to have plenty of time to understand and practice the concepts learned. Each student will be given one grace, excused abuse. An excused absence is only allowed if you notify me prior to the start of the class. Continued absences will negatively affect your grade. Each consecutive absence, excused or unexcused, will result in the automatic lowering of one letter grade. A failing grade will be assigned after 4 absences. Tardiness: Being an automotive professional means more than just the ability to make repairs. Showing up to work on-time is just as critical for professional success. I consider you tardy if you show up more than 15 minutes late for class. One tardy will equal of an absence. Make-up work/exams: Make-up exams and quizzes are allowed for excused absences only. Please note that make-up tests may be different than the original work. The student is responsible for obtaining the class room material from another student.

Grading:
You can choose your grade. All assignments and labs may be repeated until satisfactory performance is reached. I will review your research paper at any time. If it does not meet the requirements for an A grade I will make suggestions and you can then revise it. If your performance test shows that you are not yet competent with diagnosing a nonstarting vehicle you can practice and re-test. Please note that your attendance must be at least 80% if you want to request an incomplete grade. A = Satisfactory completion of all labs, assignments, performance test, and either a research paper, or diagnostic equipment activities. B = Satisfactory completion of all labs, assignments, and performance test. C = Satisfactory completion of the performance test. D = Satisfactory completion for 4 out of the 5 labs. F = Failure to complete labs and/or demonstrate competence with performance test. Labs and Assignments: I will not be able to verify or grade your work if you do not submit lab worksheets within one class day of completing the lab. I recommend completing the assignments prior to completing the lab. Performance Test: As part of your final test, you will be asked to diagnose a non-starting vehicle using the concepts and diagnostic techniques learned in class. Your ability to perform this test is of your final test grade.

To GET AN A assignment: (see details on instructor website)

Research Paper: To excel as a professional automotive service technician you must learn as much as you can about the compression, ignition, and fuel systems. To earn the Excellent Work grade of A, you may choose to complete a research paper to help you become a competent professional.

OR:
Diagnostic Equipment Activities: To excel as a professional automotive service technician you must learn to use a wide variety of diagnostic equipment. To earn the Excellent Work grade of A, you may choose to complete additional lab activities with oscilloscopes, pressure testers, leak testers, scanners, and exhaust gas analyzers. These activities will require lab time other than normal class times. Professionalism: A percentage of your final grade will be a subjective review of your professionalism in the classroom and lab environments. A sampling of the things I will be judging are as follows: Safety glasses worn at all times. All other safety rules followed.

Attire: No suggestive t-shirts. No torn jeans. (May be asked to leave class for offensive clothing) Language: No swearing, No derogative speech, No racial, ethnic, sexual slurs, etc.

Learning Resources:
Details on the labs, assignments, performance test and research paper can be found at www.linnbenton.edu/auto/perform. There is no required textbook for this class. Many excellent textbooks are available in the LBCC library and they can help you excel in this class and as a professional. The Learning Center is a wonderful resource for improving your skill as a lifelong learner and is a great place to study and do homework. They have computers, tutoring services, mini courses on study skills, and a very helpful staff. They will even help you write your research paper. Tiffany Castillo (917-4796) e-mail CASTILT@linnbenton.edu is available in the counseling center. She will help you succeed at LBCC and can refer you to many types of student services. Other resources to help you succeed as a student can be found at www.linnbenton.edu/auto/student_serv.htm Computer Labs to help you with your research and assignments are available on the LBCC campus, in Corvallis, Lebanon and Sweet Home.

Required Lab Materials:

You must provide hand tools as outlined in the Required Tools list, safety glasses, safety shoes and coveralls. Tool rentals are available.

Lab Safety:
For the safety of your person, our equipment, and the vehicles, no equipment is to be used, or work performed, unless an instructor is present. You will wear safety glasses while in the active lab environment. Contact lenses are not safe, even under safety glasses, and are not allowed. If you are unable, or unwilling, to follow safety precautions I will ask you to leave the lab area. If you notice any situation that you feel may not be safe for people, vehicles, equipment, or the environment please be sure to tell me. Students who may need accommodations due to documented disabilities, who have medical information which the instructor should know, or who need special arrangements in an emergency, should speak with the instructor during the first week of class. If you have not accessed services and think you may need them, please contact Disability Services, 917-4789. Link to the Office of Disability Services.