AMT 50 Automatic Transmission/Transaxle

Course Description

  • Prerequisite: AMT 53 and AMT 55
  • Corequisite: AMT 46
  • Recommended Prep: Employment in the automotive industry
  • AMT majors only

This course explains the fundamental principles of automatic transmission designs and operations found on both Front Wheel Drive (FWD) and Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) vehicles. Service and overhaul procedures are given on various import and domestic automatic transmissions according to the manufacturer’s standards. Introduction to Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmissions (ECAT) also included.

Text and References

Automatic Transmissions & Transaxles, 4th Edition (Chek-Chart); Auto Service and Repair, Stockel/Stockel; Manufacturer Service Manuals; Chilton, Mitchell, and Motors Service Manuals; Specialty Periodicals; 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 50, 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 Transmission and Transaxle Diagnosis
    2. Transmission and Transaxle Maintenance and Adjustment
    3. In-vehicle Transmission and Transaxle Repair
    4. Off-vehicle Transmission and Transaxle Repair

Module Names

  • Introduction to Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles
  • Transmission Fluids, Filters, and Coolers
  • In Chassis Adjustments and Service
  • Gaskets, Seals, Bushings, Bearings, Thrust Washers, & Snaprings
  • Hydraulic Fundamentals and Systems
  • Apply Devices
  • Gears and Gearsets
  • Fluid Coupling and Torque Converters
  • Electronic Control Systems
  • Transmission Disassembly, Cleaning, and Inspection
  • Transmission Assembly
  • Preliminary Inspection, Testing, and Diagnosis
  • Transmission and Transaxle Removal and Installation
  • Transmission Bench Testing

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 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 five 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%