AMT 55 Suspension and Steering

Course Description

  • Prerequisite or Corequisite: AMT 20, PHYS 56
  • Corequisite: AMT 20 and AMT 53
  • AMT majors only

This course covers the need of today’s automotive suspension system specialist. Fundamental information, repair procedures and current service practices are included. Various types of suspension and steering components found in the modern automobile are covered with steering geometry and wheel alignments of 2 and 4 wheel steering automobiles. An introduction to Supplemental Restraint Systems (air bags) also included.

Text and References

Harper Collins/Check Chart, Automotive Steering , Suspension, & Wheel Alignment 3rd edition.
Birch, Automotive Suspension & Steering Systems

Course Goals

  • 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 technological changes in the automobile.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of AMT 55, 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 Suspension and Steering System Diagnosis
    2. Steering System Diagnosis and Repair
    3. Suspension System Diagnosis and Repair
    4. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment and Repair
    5. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis and Repair

Module Names

  • Shop Safety
  • The Automotive Chassis
  • Lubricating, Sealing, and Reducing Friction
  • Dynamics of Handling
  • Wheels and Tires
  • Wheel and Tire Runout, Balance, and Rotation
  • Suspension Components
  • Shock Absorbers, Strut, and Spring Service
  • Front Suspension Designs
  • Rear Suspension Designs
  • Servicing the Suspension Linkage
  • Steering Wheel, Column, and Gear Systems
  • Steering Linkages
  • Power Assisted Steering
  • Wheel Alignment
  • Electronically Controlled Suspension Systems

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. Even in classrooms activities.

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 three days will result in a failing grade. Students tardies resulting in missing the morning lecture or one and one half hour late will result in an absent.

Point system: All assignments – homework, worksheets, and quizzes are to be tabulated into final points. All work turned in late will result in a 50% deduction in points. No make-up will be possible on certain lab work. Any score below 65% on the final written or practical exam will not be allowed and result in a failing grade regardless of student progress, no make up exams allowed and Student must retake course.

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% Midterm Exam Quizes
    • 5% Homework Assignment

Grading Structure

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