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Gabby
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
2
Questions
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Diesel Mechanics?
What recommendations do you have for classes for Diesel Mechanics certifications?
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Joe L.
Program Manager
88
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
If you're interested in obtaining certifications in diesel mechanics, you'll want to take courses that provide both foundational knowledge in mechanics and hands-on training with diesel engines. Here are some recommended classes and subjects to look for:
1. Basic Automotive and Diesel Engine Courses
Introduction to Diesel Technology: Covers the fundamentals of diesel engine design, components, and operation.
Engine Systems: A more in-depth look at diesel engines, focusing on fuel injection systems, air intake, exhaust systems, and turbochargers.
Diesel Engine Repair: Training on diagnosing and repairing diesel engines, which is critical for certification exams.
2. Electrical Systems
Diesel Electrical and Electronic Systems: This course covers electrical fundamentals, including battery, charging, and starting systems in diesel engines.
Electronic Diagnostics and Testing: Learn to use diagnostic tools to troubleshoot and repair electronic issues in modern diesel engines.
3. Hydraulics and Powertrain
Hydraulic Systems: Diesel mechanics often work on vehicles with hydraulic systems, so courses in hydraulics and fluid power are useful.
Powertrain and Transmission Systems: Focuses on understanding the mechanics of transmissions, drivetrains, and how they interact with diesel engines.
4. Preventative Maintenance and Inspection
Preventative Maintenance: Learn about routine service, inspection, and maintenance procedures for diesel engines and associated systems.
Emission Systems and Compliance: Covers emission regulations and the maintenance of exhaust systems, including aftertreatment devices like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs).
5. Brakes, Suspension, and Steering Systems
Brake Systems: Training on air brakes, ABS, and hydraulic brake systems found in large diesel vehicles.
Steering and Suspension: Covers alignment, steering systems, and the basics of heavy-duty vehicle suspension.
6. Welding and Fabrication (Optional but Useful)
Many diesel mechanics benefit from basic welding skills, as repairs sometimes require welding or fabricating custom parts.
7. Safety and Workplace Procedures
Shop Safety: Training in proper safety protocols is critical for working in a repair environment, especially when handling heavy equipment.
Environmental Procedures: Covers handling and disposal of hazardous materials, which is important in diesel repair due to the types of fluids and chemicals involved.
8. Computer and Diagnostic Tools
Computerized Diagnostic Equipment: Courses that teach you to use modern diagnostic tools like scan tools and software specific to diesel engines (such as CAT ET or Cummins INSITE) are valuable.
Certifications and Practical Training
Many diesel mechanics pursue certifications such as those offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Look for programs that prepare you for the ASE certification exams in areas like diesel engines, electrical/electronic systems, and air brakes.
Additionally, programs that provide hands-on labs and access to real diesel engines or simulators will be especially helpful in mastering the practical skills needed for certification and work in the field.
1. Basic Automotive and Diesel Engine Courses
Introduction to Diesel Technology: Covers the fundamentals of diesel engine design, components, and operation.
Engine Systems: A more in-depth look at diesel engines, focusing on fuel injection systems, air intake, exhaust systems, and turbochargers.
Diesel Engine Repair: Training on diagnosing and repairing diesel engines, which is critical for certification exams.
2. Electrical Systems
Diesel Electrical and Electronic Systems: This course covers electrical fundamentals, including battery, charging, and starting systems in diesel engines.
Electronic Diagnostics and Testing: Learn to use diagnostic tools to troubleshoot and repair electronic issues in modern diesel engines.
3. Hydraulics and Powertrain
Hydraulic Systems: Diesel mechanics often work on vehicles with hydraulic systems, so courses in hydraulics and fluid power are useful.
Powertrain and Transmission Systems: Focuses on understanding the mechanics of transmissions, drivetrains, and how they interact with diesel engines.
4. Preventative Maintenance and Inspection
Preventative Maintenance: Learn about routine service, inspection, and maintenance procedures for diesel engines and associated systems.
Emission Systems and Compliance: Covers emission regulations and the maintenance of exhaust systems, including aftertreatment devices like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs).
5. Brakes, Suspension, and Steering Systems
Brake Systems: Training on air brakes, ABS, and hydraulic brake systems found in large diesel vehicles.
Steering and Suspension: Covers alignment, steering systems, and the basics of heavy-duty vehicle suspension.
6. Welding and Fabrication (Optional but Useful)
Many diesel mechanics benefit from basic welding skills, as repairs sometimes require welding or fabricating custom parts.
7. Safety and Workplace Procedures
Shop Safety: Training in proper safety protocols is critical for working in a repair environment, especially when handling heavy equipment.
Environmental Procedures: Covers handling and disposal of hazardous materials, which is important in diesel repair due to the types of fluids and chemicals involved.
8. Computer and Diagnostic Tools
Computerized Diagnostic Equipment: Courses that teach you to use modern diagnostic tools like scan tools and software specific to diesel engines (such as CAT ET or Cummins INSITE) are valuable.
Certifications and Practical Training
Many diesel mechanics pursue certifications such as those offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Look for programs that prepare you for the ASE certification exams in areas like diesel engines, electrical/electronic systems, and air brakes.
Additionally, programs that provide hands-on labs and access to real diesel engines or simulators will be especially helpful in mastering the practical skills needed for certification and work in the field.