Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology
The Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology program prepares individuals for employment as entry-level transportation service technicians. The program provides an introduction to transportation industry careers and increases student awareness of the diverse technologies associated with this dynamic and challenging field. The degree program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain diesel engines in vehicles such as Heavy Duty Trucks over one ton classification, buses, ships, railroad locomotives, and equipment as well as stationary diesel engines in electrical generators and related equipment.
For specific information about potential positions and wages in diesel and heavy equipment employment, visit the Central Piedmont Career Coach website.
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology (A60460)
General Education Requirements | ||
ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
ACA 122 | College Transfer Success | 1.0 |
Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
Introduction to Communication | ||
or COM 231 | Public Speaking | |
Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
Mathematical Measurement and Literacy | ||
Quantitative Literacy | ||
Statistical Methods I | ||
Precalculus Algebra | ||
Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
Art Appreciation | ||
Art History Survey I | ||
Art History Survey II | ||
Theatre Appreciation | ||
Cultural Studies | ||
Myth in Human Culture | ||
Music Appreciation | ||
Introduction to Jazz | ||
Philosophical Issues | ||
Introduction to Ethics | ||
World Religions | ||
Select one of the following: | 3.0 | |
Principles of Microeconomics | ||
Principles of Macroeconomics | ||
World Civilizations I | ||
World Civilizations II | ||
American History I | ||
American History II | ||
American Government | ||
General Psychology | ||
Introduction to Sociology | ||
Major Requirements | ||
TRN 110 | Introduction to Transport Technology | 2.0 |
TRN 120 | Basic Transportation Electricity | 5.0 |
TRN 140 | Transportation Climate Control | 2.0 |
HET 110 | Diesel Engines | 6.0 |
HET 114 | Power Trains | 5.0 |
HET 125 | Preventive Maintenance (Major Others) | 2.0 |
Major Others Requirements | ||
Select 22 credits from the following: | 22.0 | |
Sustainable Transportation Technology | ||
Pc Skills for Transportation | ||
Basic Welding for Transportation | ||
Electronic Engines | ||
Medium/Heavy Duty Tune Up | ||
Air Brakes | ||
Medium/Heavy Duty Brake Systems | ||
Suspension and Steering | ||
Hydraulics/Pneumatics I | ||
Hydraulic/Hydrostatic Construction | ||
Advanced Hydraulics | ||
Select 8 credits from the following: | 8.0 | |
Work-Based Learning I | ||
Work-Based Learning II | ||
Work-Based Learning III | ||
Work-Based Learning IV | ||
Preventive Maintenance Lab | ||
Medium/Heavy Duty Brake Systems Lab | ||
Advanced Transportation Electronics | ||
Basic Welding for Transportation Lab | ||
Transportation Climate Control Lab | ||
Basic Transportation Electrical Lab | ||
Biofuels for Transportation | ||
Gaseous Fuels for Transportation | ||
Total Credits | 68 |
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Diplomas (D60460)
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Diploma (D60460-D3)
General Education Requirements | ||
ENG 111 | Writing and Inquiry | 3.0 |
MAT 110 | Mathematical Measurement and Literacy | 3.0 |
Major Requirements | ||
TRN 110 | Introduction to Transport Technology | 2.0 |
TRN 120 | Basic Transportation Electricity | 5.0 |
TRN 140 | Transportation Climate Control | 2.0 |
HET 110 | Diesel Engines | 6.0 |
HET 114 | Power Trains | 5.0 |
HET 125 | Preventive Maintenance | 2.0 |
Major Other - Select 14 credits from the follwing: | 14.0 | |
Pc Skills for Transportation | ||
Basic Welding for Transportation | ||
Electronic Engines | ||
Hydraulics-Medium and Heavy Duty | ||
Medium/Heavy Duty Brake Systems | ||
Suspension and Steering | ||
Hydraulics/Pneumatics I | ||
Hydraulics-Medium and Heavy Duty | ||
Hydraulic/Hydrostatic Construction | ||
Technical Elective - Select 6 Credits from the following: | 6.0 | |
Basic Transportation Electrical Lab | ||
Transportation Climate Control Lab | ||
Basic Welding for Transportation Lab | ||
Preventive Maintenance Lab | ||
Air Brakes | ||
Suspension and Steering | ||
Total Credits | 48 |
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificates (C60460)
- Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificate Specialization in Forklift Repair (C60460-C1)
- Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificate Specialization in Diesel Service Repair I (C60460-C3)
- Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificate Specialization in Diesel Service Repair II (C60460-C4)
- Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificate Specialization in Diesel Service Repair III (C60460-C5)
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificate Specialization in Forklift Repair (C60460-C1)
Major Requirements | ||
TRN 120 | Basic Transportation Electricity | 5.0 |
HET 110 | Diesel Engines | 6.0 |
HET 125 | Preventive Maintenance | 2.0 |
TRN 120A | Basic Transportation Electrical Lab | 1.0 |
HET 126 | Preventive Maintenance Lab | 1.0 |
HYD 112 | Hydraulics-Medium and Heavy Duty | 2.0 |
Total Credits | 17 |
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificate Specialization in Diesel Service Repair I (C60460-C3)
Major Requirements | ||
TRN 110 | Introduction to Transport Technology | 2.0 |
TRN 140 | Transportation Climate Control | 2.0 |
HET 110 | Diesel Engines | 6.0 |
TRN 140A | Transportation Climate Control Lab | 2.0 |
TRN 170 | Pc Skills for Transportation | 2.0 |
HET 231 | Medium/Heavy Duty Brake Systems | 2.0 |
HET 232 | Medium/Heavy Duty Brake Systems Lab | 1.0 |
Total Credits | 17 |
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificate Specialization in Diesel Service Repair II (C60460-C4)
Major Requirements | ||
TRN 140 | Transportation Climate Control | 2.0 |
TRN 140A | Transportation Climate Control Lab | 2.0 |
TRN 180 | Basic Welding for Transportation | 3.0 |
TRN 180A | Basic Welding for Transportation Lab | 1.0 |
HET 233 | Suspension and Steering | 4.0 |
WBL 112 | Work-Based Learning I | 2.0 |
Total Credits | 14 |
Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology Certificate Specialization in Diesel Service Repair III (C60460-C5)
Major Requirements | ||
HET 114 | Power Trains | 5.0 |
HET 125 | Preventive Maintenance | 2.0 |
HET 126 | Preventive Maintenance Lab | 1.0 |
HET 128 | Medium/Heavy Duty Tune Up | 2.0 |
HET 230 | Air Brakes | 2.0 |
HYD 110 | Hydraulics/Pneumatics I | 3.0 |
WBL 112 | Work-Based Learning I | 2.0 |
Total Credits | 17 |
The following is the suggested plan for when to take each course to complete the Associate in Applied Science degree, based on the program requirements of the 2022-2023 catalog. This is only a recommendation — you may take courses in another order upon consultation with your advisor. This plan is based on you starting with college-level math and English courses, starting your program in the fall, and attending full-time. You can also follow this sequence if you attend part-time. Speak with an advisor about the plan and any questions. This program might also offer diplomas or certificates; visit the catalog or contact the program for details.
Heavy Equipment Maintenance Courses
HET 110. Diesel Engines. 6.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-9.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces theory, design, terminology, and operating adjustments for diesel engines. Emphasis is laced on safety, theory of operation, inspection, measuring, and rebuilding diesel engines according to factory specifications. Upon completion, students should be able to measure, diagnose problems, and repair diesel engines.
HET 114. Power Trains. 5.0 Credits. Class-3.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-6.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces power transmission devices. Topics include function and operation of gears, chains, clutches, planetary gears, drive lines, differentials, and transmissions. Upon completion, students should be able to identify, research specifications, repair, and adjust power train components.
HET 115. Electronic Engines. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the principles of electronically controlled diesel engines. Emphasis is placed on testing and adjusting diesel engines in accordance with manufacturers' specifications. Upon completion, students should be able to diagnose, test, and calibrate electronically controlled diesel engines.
HET 125. Preventive Maintenance. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces preventive maintenance practices used on medium and heavy duty vehicles and rolling assemblies. Topics include preventive maintenance schedules, services, DOT rules and regulations, and road ability. Upon completion, students should be able to set up and follow a preventive maintenance schedule as directed by manufacturers.
HET 126. Preventive Maintenance Lab. 1.0 Credit. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course provides a laboratory setting to enhance preventive maintenance practices used on medium and heavy duty vehicles and rolling assemblies. Emphasis is placed on practical experiences that enhance the topics presented in HET 125. upon completion, students should be able to to apply the laboratory experiences to the concepts presented in HET 125.
HET 128. Medium/Heavy Duty Tune Up. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces tune-up and troubleshooting according to manufacturers' specifications. Topics include troubleshooting engine systems, tune-up procedures, and use and care of special test tools and equipment. Upon completion, students should be able to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair engines and components using appropriate diagnostic equipment.
HET 230. Air Brakes. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the operation and design of air braking systems used on trucks. Topics include safety, governors, compressors, and supporting systems. Upon completion, students should be able to diagnose, disassemble, inspect, repair, and reassemble air brake systems.
HET 231. Medium/Heavy Duty Brake Systems. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the theory and repair of braking systems used in medium and heavy-duty vehicles. Topics include air, hydraulic, and ABS system diagnosis and repair. Upon completion, students should be able to troubleshoot, adjust, and repair braking systems on medium and heavy-duty vehicles.
HET 232. Medium/Heavy Duty Brake Systems Lab. 1.0 Credit. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course provides a laboratory setting to enhance the skills for troubleshooting, adjusting, and repairing brake systems on medium and heavy duty vehicles. Emphasis is placed on practical experiences that enhance the topics presented in HET 231. Upon completion, students should be able to apply the laboratory experiences to the concepts presented in HET 231.
HET 233. Suspension and Steering. 4.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-4.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the theory and principles of medium and heavy duty steering and suspension systems. Topics include wheel and tire problems, frame members, fifth wheel, bearings, and coupling systems. Upon completion, students should be able to troubleshoot, adjust, and repair suspension and steering components on medium and heavy duty vehicles.
Hydraulics Courses
HYD 110. Hydraulics/Pneumatics I. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces the basic components and functions of hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Topics include standard symbols, pumps, control valves, control assemblies, actuators, FRL, maintenance procedures, and switching and control devices. Upon completion, students should be able to understand the operation of a fluid power system, including design, application, and troubleshooting.
HYD 112. Hydraulics-Medium and Heavy Duty. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces hydraulic theory and applications as applied to mobile equipment. Topics include component studies such as pumps, motors, valves, cylinders, filters, reservoirs, lines, and fittings. Upon completion, students should be able to identify, diagnose, test, and repair hydraulic systems using schematics and technical manuals.
HYD 134. Hydraulic/Hydrostatic Construction. 4.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-4.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the hydraulic/hydrostatic components of construction equipment hydraulics and power trains. Topics include testing, adjusting, repair, and replacement of components that are applied to construction equipment hydraulics and transmissions along with other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to use proper diagnostic procedures and identify, repair, and replace hydraulic and hydrostatic systems on construction equipment.
HYD 210. Advanced Hydraulics. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course covers advanced hydraulic systems. Emphasis is placed on advanced hydraulic systems and components, troubleshooting, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the installation, application, operation, and maintenance of hydraulic components and systems.
Transportation Technology Courses
TRN 110. Introduction to Transport Technology. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course covers workplace safety, hazardous materials, environmental regulations, hand tools, service information, basic concepts, vehicle systems, and common transportation industry terminology. Topics include familiarization with major vehicle systems, proper use of various hand and power tools, material safety data sheets, and personal protective equipment. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate appropriate safety procedures, identify and use basic shop tools, and describe government regulations regarding transportation repair facilities.
TRN 120. Basic Transportation Electricity. 5.0 Credits. Class-4.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course covers basic electrical theory, wiring diagrams, test equipment, and diagnosis, repair and replacement of batteries, starters, and alternators. Topics include Ohm's Law, circuit construction, wiring diagrams, circuit testing, and basic troubleshooting. Upon completion, students should be able to properly use wiring diagrams, diagnose, test, and repair basic wiring, battery, starting, charging, and electrical concerns.
TRN 120A. Basic Transportation Electrical Lab. 1.0 Credit. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course provides a lab that allows students to enhance their understanding of electrical components and circuits used in the transportation industry. Topics include inspection, diagnosis, and repair of electrical components and circuits using appropriate service information for specific transportation systems. Upon completion, students should be able to diagnose and service electrical components and circuits used in transportation systems.
TRN 130. Intro to Sustainable Transportation. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course provides an overview of alternative fuels and alternative fuel vehicles. Topics include composition and use of alternative fuels including compressed natural gas, biodiesel, ethanol, hydrogen, and synthetic fuels, hybrid/electric, and vehicles using alternative fuels. Upon completion, students should be able to identify alternative fuel vehicles, explain how each alternative fuel delivery system operates, and perform minor repairs.
TRN 140A. Transportation Climate Control Lab. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course provides experiences for enhancing student skills in the diagnosis and repair of transportation climate control systems. Emphasis is placed on reclaiming, recovery, recharging, leak detection, climate control components, diagnosis, air conditioning equipment, tools and safety. Upon completion, students should be able to describe the operation, diagnose, and safely service climate control systems using appropriate tools, equipment, and service information.
TRN 140. Transportation Climate Control. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the theory of refrigeration and heating, electrical/electronic/pneumatic controls, and diagnosis and repair of climate control systems. Topics include diagnosis and repair of climate control components and systems, recovery/recycling of refrigerants, and safety and environmental regulations. Upon completion, students should be able to diagnose and repair vehicle climate control systems.
TRN 145. Advanced Transportation Electronics. 3.0 Credits. Class-2.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course covers advanced transportation electronic systems including programmable logic controllers, on-board data networks, telematics, high voltage systems, navigation, collision avoidance systems and electronic accessories. Topics include interpretation of wiring schematics, reprogramming PLC?s, diagnosing and testing data networks and other electronic concerns. Upon completion, students should be able to reprogram PLC?s, diagnose and test data networks and other electronic concerns, and work safely with high voltage systems.
TRN 170. Pc Skills for Transportation. 2.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-2.0. Work-0.0
This course introduces students to personal computer literacy and Internet literacy with an emphasis on the transportation service industry. Topics include service information systems, management systems, computer-based systems, and PC-based diagnostic equipment. Upon completion, students should be able to access information pertaining to transportation technology and perform word processing.
TRN 180A. Basic Welding for Transportation Lab. 1.0 Credit. Class-0.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-3.0. Work-0.0
This course provides a laboratory experience for enhancing student skills in welding and cutting procedures associated with the transportation industry. Emphasis is placed on safety and precautionary measures, setup/operation of MIG equipment, metal identification, welds/joints, techniques, inspection of welds/joints, cutting processes and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge of welding operations and safety procedures according to industry standards.
TRN 180. Basic Welding for Transportation. 3.0 Credits. Class-1.0. Clinical-0.0. Lab-4.0. Work-0.0
This course covers the terms and procedures for welding various metals used in the transportation industry with an emphasis on personal safety and environmental health. Topics include safety and precautionary measures, setup/operation of MIG equipment, metal identification methods, types of welds/joints, techniques, inspection methods, cutting processes and other related issues. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge of welding operations and safety procedures according to industry standard.