AMT 46 Powertrain and Manual Transmissions

Course Description

  • Prerequisite: AMT 53 and AMT 55
  • Corequisite: AMT 50
  • AMT majors only

In this class, students will learn shop safety, proper use of related tools and equipment. The various designs of manual transmissions, differentials, and transaxles are covered in this course
along with the many drive line components found in the undercarriage of the automobile. Each major component is covered in detail, including such topics as purpose, application, operation, inspection, diagnosis, and repair. Course includes live work.

Text and References

Manual Drive Trains & Axles – 3rd edition, Thomas Birch
Auto Mechanics Fundamentals, Goodheart-Wilcox/Stockel/Stockel Auto Service and Repair, Goodheart-Wilcox/Stockel/Stockel Manufacturer Service Manuals; Chilton, Mitchell, and Motors Service Manuals; Specialty Periodicals; Specialty Product Publications; Handouts.

Course Goals

  • Course goals are to fulfill standards specified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF);
  • to prepare the student with the skills and competencies necessary for a successful career as an automotive technician;
  • to instill positive work habits and attitude necessary to work in a highly competitive field;
  • to provide the student with the basic skills necessary to become a lifelong learner in order to keep abreast of the latest technological changes in the automobile.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of AMT 46, the student will be able to:

  • Work independently and inter-dependently in an automotive repair facility
  • Function safely in an automotive environment
  • Communicate effectively to gather and convey industry related information
  • Operate automotive equipment and specialty tools
  • Perform all of the NATEF tasks that are outlined in each section listed below. Refer to the NATEF task list on website for a complete list of individual tasks.
    1. General Drive Train Diagnosis
    2. Clutch Diagnosis and Repair
    3. Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis and Repair
    4. Drive Shaft and Half Shaft, Universal and Constant -Velocity (CV) Joint Diagnosis and Repair
    5. Drive Axle Diagnosis and Repair
    6. Four-wheel Drive/All-wheel Drive Component Diagnosis and Repair

Module Names

  • Drive Line
  • Driveline Diagnosis and Service
  • Clutch Components and Theory
  • Clutch Diagnosis and Servicing
  • Transmission Theory
  • Transmission Service and Repair
  • Transaxle Theory
  • Transaxle Service and Repair
  • Differential and Axle Assembly
  • Axle, Bearing, and Seal Service
  • Differential Service and Adjustments
  • Four Wheel Drives

Student Contributions

Physical ability: This course requires physical strength and dexterity as well as eye-hand coordination to perform repairs and to avoid unnecessary material losses and personal injury

Teamwork: This course requires that the student work as a cohesive team participant. Failure to be a contributing participant will be reflected in one’s grade.

Dress code: Students are to be work ready at all times and dressed according to AMT program policy.

Tool requirements: Students are to bring tools applicable to subject area. Failure to comply will result in the student being unable to perform shop work, being sent home, and/or being marked absent.

Attitude: Students are expected to have a positive attitude that contributes to their learning by being aggressive without being arrogant nor selfish.

Grading Policy

Attendance: Students will maintain a time card per NATEF requirements. Each tardy (to class and from breaks) and absence will result in point deduction from final accumulated grade points. Three tardies will equal one absence. Absence of 10% or four days will result in a failing grade.

Point system: All assignments – homework, worksheets, and quizzes are to be tabulated into final points. All work turned in late will result in 50% deduction in points. No make–up work will be possible on certain lab work.

Final Grading

  • 60 % Shop work/exercises
    • 25% Practical Final Exam
    • 25% Work Habits
    • 10% Lab work/Worksheets
  • 40% Classroom work and assignments
    • 20% Written Final Exam
    • 15% Module Exams
    • 5% Homework

Grading Structure

  • A = 90 to 100%
  • B = 80 to 89%
  • C = 70 to 79%
  • F = Below 70%