An in-depth welding program...
An in-depth welding program is offered as an elective.
Electrical and Electronics I
This course covers the basic principles of electricity, magnetism, and electronics. Basic operation of the complete electrical system is taught, including battery charging, starting, ignition, and accessory circuits. The use of shop manuals and electronic media is stressed. A strong emphasis is placed on wiring diagram comprehension. Students study diagnosis, trouble-shooting, repair and maintenance of the automotive electrical system. A digital volt/ohm meter and calculator are required.
Electrical and Electronics II
This course reviews and builds on information taught in the basic program. The information covered includes instrumentation, electronic climate control, cruise control, advanced lighting systems, air bags and sensors, motorized seat belts, etc. Also covered is the use of digital multimeters, scan equipment, oscilloscopes and diagnostic flow charts.
Suspension and Steering
The fundamentals of chassis design, including power steering systems, variable effort power steering, suspension (both traditional and computer controlled, such as the GM magnetic fluid system), geometric centerline, thrust line, and four wheel alignment, are covered. Proper procedures to diagnose suspension problems and basic frame and body measuring are discussed. Laboratory work includes steering and suspension repair, tire repair and balancing, and computerized wheel alignment.
Hydraulic Brake Systems
The fundamental principles of hydraulics pertaining to the automotive brake systems are learned in this class. Students study the theory of operation and component design. The skills to diagnose and repair hydraulic systems, drum and disc brake systems, power assist units and anti-lock controls are taught. Laboratory work includes demonstrations of on-car practices to provide a working knowledge of diagnosis and repair of the hydraulic systems and related components.
Engine Performance
Skills in basic engine performance are developed in this program. Diagnosis and repair of ignition and related circuits, sensors, fuel injection, air induction, computer and emissions systems is taught. Students use test equipment, such as timing lights, compression gauges, cylinder leakage testers, vacuum gauges, five-gas exhaust analyzers, and oscilloscopes.
Computerized Engine Control Systems
The current electronic engine and fuel management systems are introduced, such as General Motors TBI, SFI, PFI, C3I, and direct ignition and fuel injection (GDI), such as that used on the Solstice GXP. Lab work includes the diagnosis of driveability and engine performance complaints utilizing modern equipment.
Engine theory is put to the...
Engine theory is put to the test in one of the dyno cells.
With the basics of automotive theory established, the student progresses into the dedicated high-performance curriculum.
High-Performance Suspension and Steering
The objective of this course is to provide the students with a basic knowledge of race car dynamics for dirt, asphalt, road race, drag race and street performance. Safety features built into vehicles, as well as driver safety equipment, are explained. Basic chassis construction and procedures to stiffen production vehicles are covered as well as in-depth discussion on front and rear suspension, springs, shocks, weight transfer and tire design and compounds. There is also the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at a racetrack setting up and tuning performance cars.
High-Performance Drive Lines
The principles of high-performance enhancements for the drivetrains of both street and race cars are covered. Areas of instruction include ring-and-pinion set-up for Ford 9-inch and quick-change rear ends and traction aids, including locking spools, ladder bar and four-link installation and adjustment. Automatic transmission air shifter, transmission brake, torque converter, as well as Powerglide modifications for circle and drag racing, are also part of the curriculum. Manual transmission operation and hands-on service of Bert, Brinn, G-Force, Jericho, Lenco and other popular transmission and clutch components are covered as well.
High-Performance Engine Machining
The required machining operations to repair engines in a typical machine shop are covered. Industry standards and procedures are taught. The machining operations include engine block boring, sleeve installation, and honing and milling. Cylinder head repair includes milling, seat and guide replacement, along with three-angle valve cuts. In addition, connecting rod resizing and crankshaft polishing are studied. The students perform these operations on training aids as well as their own engine components.
Metal fabrication is an important...
Metal fabrication is an important part of the high-performance curriculum.
Graphics, interior trim and...
Graphics, interior trim and stereo installation is also covered as an elective.
The machine shop area enjoys...
The machine shop area enjoys the latest in high-performance engine building equipment.