Course Description
This course is designed to provide the necessary knowledge required to be able to: identify, service, troubleshoot, remove, disassemble, inspect, reassemble, and install steering assemblies and suspensions. Lubrication, manual and remote controls for tag/lift axles, frame repair, cab suspension, failure analysis and parts evaluation are included. The course is a mixture of textbook, videos, lecture, hands-on exercises and on-site instruction at a local diesel repair facility.
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate proper shop safety practices while in the labs.
- Identify tools used for steering and suspension repair.
- Disable supplemental restraint systems in accordance with manufacturers’ procedures.
- Diagnose power steering systems and determine need for replacement.
- Diagnose steering and suspension components to determine need for replacement.
- Remove and replace steering and suspension components.
- Describe steering and alignment geometry.
- Perform pre-alignment checks according to industry standards.
- Diagnose rear suspension system and determine needed service or repair.
- Check and adjust all alignment angles and measurements.
- Inspect, rotate, mount, and balance tires.
- Repair tire leaks.
- Inspect, service, and replace front leaf spring bushings, pins, and shackles.
- Inspect and service air springs.
- Inspect, diagnose, and repair air ride systems.
- Inspect and service kingpins.
Topical Outline
· Steering axis inclination
· Identification and determination of steering concerns
· Solid axle suspension
· Toe-out on turns front and rear suspension systems
· Alignment angle effects
· Included angle
· Spring types and service
· Caster, camber, toe
· Geometric centerline alignment
· Thrust angle
· Alignment sequence
· Component inspection/replacement
· Steering gear systems
· Equipment identification and use
· Wheel and tire repair and balancing
· Power steering pumps
· Air-ride systems