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.
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
- Thrust angle
- Alignment sequence
- Component inspection/replacement
- Steering gear systems
- Equipment identification and use
- Power steering pumps
- Air-ride systems
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 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.
- 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.