SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN COLLEGE
SCHOOL OF Advanced Technology
Dowagiac, Michigan
COURSE SYLLABUS
Spring Semester 2014
COURSE TITLE:
AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRICAL
SYSTEMS
CREDITS/CONTACTS:
Credit Hours:
Lecture hours/weekly:
Laboratory hours/weekly:
Weekly Contact Hours:
FINAL EXAM
INFORMATION:
April 28th 1:00pm-2:55pm
Kairis 528
INSTRUCTOR:
Rock Ruthsatz,
Office: Kairis 516
Office Phone: 269-782-1263
Email: truthsatz01@swmich.edu
OFFICE
HOURS:
M, W 1:45pm-3:15
T, R, F By Appointment
PREREQUISITE:
Minimum Grade of C in Phys 103, Read 100, Math 100
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Covers the cars’ electrical, computer and accessory circuit systems.
Diagnosis, inspection, reading and writing wiring diagrams and testing and
repair of systems and components is covered in detail
DEPARTMENT CHAIR:
Rock Ruthsatz
Office: Kairis 516
Office Phone: 269-782-1263
Email: truthsatz01@swmich.edu
COURSE OUTCOMES:
Student will become proficient in the areas taught (see attached NATEF
outcomes) and will be prepared to take the state certification exam for
Automotive Electrical Systems.
TEXTBOOK:
REQUIRED:
ADDITIONAL
REQUIRED RESOURCES:
COURSE NO.:
AUTO 220
SECTION NO.:
1047
7
3
8
11
1) Duffy, Auto Electricity and Electronics
2010. Goodheart-Wilcox.
ISBN:9781590709122
2) Duffy and Henke-Konopasek Auto
Electricity and Electromics 2010.
Goodheart-Wilcox.
ISBN:9781590709115
3) Erjavek, Electrical and Electronic
Systems 2nd Edition 2006. Thomson Delmar.
Lab Workbook/sheets
4) Piechocki, Auto Lab Packet
OSHA approved safety glasses, hand tools and
Voucher. Voucher is available at SMC
bookstore.
Michigan Certification Testing: Students are
required to take this exam at the end of the
semester.
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION:
Lectures, discussions, Audio/Video materials, textbooks, hands-on learning
lab projects, cooperative learning groups and the internet will all be utilized
during this class.
EVALUATION METHOD:
Homework/Handouts/Quizes
Tests
Lab Exercises
Final Exam
Total
15%
15%
50%
20%
100%
Students are required to complete 100%
of lab assignments to receive Lab Exercises
credit. The lab credit will be divided into
two portions. Half of the lab credit will be
issued at Mid-Term upon completion of
half of the labs; the remaining half will be
issued upon completion of 100% of the
total labs assigned.
GRADING SCALE:
The following grading scale will be in effect for this course:
A
93.4-100%
C
73.4-76.7%
A-
90-93.3%
C-
70-73.3%
B+
86.8-89.9%
D+
66.8-69.9%
B
83.4-86.7%
D
63.4-66.7%
B-
80-83.3%
D-
60-63.3%
C+
76.8-79.9%
F
0-59.9%
[IF this class satisfies CORE, add the following: To satisfy Core Curriculum
requirements, students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in this class.]
ATTENDANCE POLICY:
Attendance is critical for success.
Below is a table which emphasizes
this fact. Tardiness of more than 15
minutes will count as an absence. It
is recommended that a student drop
the course after 4 absences due to lab
constraints, however they are assigned
a failing grade after 8.
Number of
Sessions Absent
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
% of Grade Reduced:
2.5%
5%
7.5%
10%
12.5%
15%
17.5%
Failing Grade
TESTING POLICY:
The goal of this class is to develop
your skills. In order to evaluate
these skills a combination of
written and performance evaluations
will be given. The schedule of test
dates is shown in the attached course
outline, but is subject to change.
FEEDBACK POLICY:
The Instructor will provide prompt and ongoing feedback by returning graded
lab assignments within two weeks of submission; all other assignments turned
in on time will be returned graded within one week of submission. Current
student grades will also be available on student’s Moodle page.
NOTICE:
Representative student work will be used as a part of SMC’s on-going
curriculum assessment program.
OTHER COURSE
EXPECTATIONS:
All shop policies must be followed, using safe work practice rules.
These include, but are not limited to:
1.
All vehicles, including school owned cars, that enter the shop must have a
filled out repair order.
2. Any vehicle that is run in the shop must have an exhaust system in
functional condition, and it must be hooked to the shop’s ventilation
system.
3. Students will be required to work in the shop with safety glasses and
appropriate safety equipment.
4. Steel toed shoes strongly recommended; leather shoes required (no
sandals).
5. Students with an Employer Sponsor are encouraged to wear the uniform
of their sponsor.
6. Students must wear an instructor-approved uniform type work shirt or lab
coat when in the lab.
7. Neat and safe dress and appearance is required at all times. No frayed or
torn clothing is permitted.
8. Profanity, ethnic or gender specific comments or jokes have no
place in the shop, classroom, or workplace. Lack of respect for
other students or personal or school property will be dealt with in an
appropriate manner. 1st violation will result in dismissal from the class
for the remainder of the day. The student will be marked as absent and
will lose attendance credit for that day.
9. All Vehicles will be inspected by the Instructor BEFORE it leaves the
shop.
10. Cell Phones are not permitted in the Classroom. Make sure they are set
to vibrate. 1st violation will result in dismissal from lecture and loss of
11.
12.
13.
14.
CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR:
attendance credit for the day. This includes text messaging.
A maximum of 5 labs per day may be turned in.
100% of labs must be completed in order to receive Lab Credit
NO LATE CLASSWORK will be accepted.
NO ONE is allowed in the tool crib except the instructor. 1 st violation
will result in dismissal from the lab and loss of attendance credit for the
day.
Students are expected to assist in maintaining a classroom environment that is
conducive to learning. In order to assure that all students have the
opportunity to gain from time spent in class; students are prohibited from
engaging in any form of distraction. Inappropriate behavior in the classroom
shall result, minimally, in a request to leave class.
ACCEPTABLE USE OF
PERSONAL
COMMUNICATION
TECHNOLOGY:
All phones, iPods, Blackberries, Palm Pilots, pagers, laptops and
other technological devices including devices capable of taking
photographs must be turned off or placed on vibrate mode and may
not be brought out during class. If you are expecting or receiving
an urgent call, you are required to leave the classroom before
answering. Violation of this policy will result in your removal
from the classroom for the class period. Multiple violations of this
policy will be referred to the appropriate dean for disciplinary
action. Further details or ramifications of violations may be found
elsewhere in this syllabus. The instructor has the right to modify
this policy to meet the needs of the course.
HONESTY POLICY:
Cheating or plagiarizing will absolutely not be tolerated at
Southwestern Michigan College. Any student found cheating or
plagiarizing material in any manner may be assigned a failing
semester/session grade in this course. A second such incident while
at SMC could result in suspension or expulsion from the institution.
A student found in violation of this section of the syllabus will not
be allowed to drop this course. Additional detail regarding cheating
and/or plagiarism may be found elsewhere in this syllabus. For
more detailed information consult the SMC Code of Student
Conduct.
FIELD TRIP:
We will be taking a field trip to the Chicago Auto Show on
February 12th. Transportation will be provided and students will
be required to attend. There are a limited number of seats and they
will be available on a first come first served basis. We will leave at
8:30 that morning and will be returning around 4:30. You will be
updated further as more information becomes available.
NOTICE: Information in this syllabus was, to the best knowledge of the instructor, considered correct and complete
when distributed for use at the beginning of the semester. The instructor, however, reserves the right, acting within
the policies and procedures of Southwestern Michigan College, to make changes in course content or instructional
techniques.
COURSE OUTLINE
COURSE OUTLINE AND SCHEDULE
Date
Subject
Text: Read BEFORE
class: Be prepared to
discuss!!!
Assignments
DUE
Week 1
Jan 13
Week 2
Jan 20
Week 3
Jan 27
Week 4
Feb 3
Week 5
Feb 10
Week 6
Feb 17
Week 7
Feb 24
Week 8
Mar 3
Week 9
Mar 10
Week 10
Mar 17
Week 11
Mar 24
Week 12
Mar 31
Week 13
Apr 7
Week 16
April 16
Introduction; Syllabus review
Safety, Electrical and Electronic
Systems
Chapter 1
Electrical Principles, Electrical Circuits,
Ohms Law, Electrical Components
Electronic Principles and Components
Chapters 2, 3, 4
Safety Test
Chapters 5, 6
Reviews
Tools, Test Equipment
Wiring, Wiring Repairs
Chapters 7, 8
Reviews
Wiring Diagrams, Manufacturer Service
Information
Basic Electrical Tests
Chapter 9, 10, 11,
Reviews
Chapters 12, 13, 25
Reviews
Chapters 14, 26
Reviews
Ignition Systems
Chapters 15, 16
Reviews
Fuel and Emission Control Systems
Wiper and Horn Systems
Chapters 18, 19, 30
Reviews
Power Accessories, Security Systems,
Entertainment Systems and Service
Restraint Systems and Service,
Chapters 20, 31, 21, 32
Reviews
Chassis Systems and Service
Hybrid Drive Systems and Service
Chapters 22, 33, 23, 24
Reviews
On Board Diagnostics, Scan Tools,
Sensor, Actuator, Computer Service
Ignition System Diagnosis and Repair,
Chapters 27, 28
Reviews
Chapters 17, 29
Review
Automotive Electrical Safety,
Computer Operation
Batteries and Service
Starting Systems and Service
Chicago Auto Show
Charging Systems and Service
Ignition Systems
Review for Mid Term
Mid Term Exam
Spring Break
Fuel and Emission Control Systems and
Electronics Service
Lighting Systems, Instrumentation,
Navigation Systems
Lighting System Diagnosis and Repair
Review for State Exam
Week 15
April 21
Week 16
April 28
Field Trip:
State Exam
State Exam
Review for Final Exam
FINAL EXAM
April 28th 1:00pm-2:55pm
Kairis Building Room 528
Review
Final Exam
Chicago Auto Show
All students registered for Wednesday auto classes are required to attend the Auto Show
on Feb 12th. Transportation and entrance will be provided. If a student is unable to attend
they need to meet with their instructor for approval. An unapproved absence constitutes a
grade reduction of 2.5% in accordance with the attendance policy found elsewhere in this
syllabus.
The following tools are REQUIRED for all students.
Basic Tool Set
A toolbox capable of holding and organizing the following tools. Lower cabinet (cart) strongly suggested, as carts
will be unavailable.
3/8 drive deep or shallow six point socket set, US: 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4, 13/16, 7/8
3/8 drive deep or shallow six point metric socket set: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19 mm
3/8 drive spark plug sockets, 5/8 and 13/16 (best to get the new deep design)
1/4 drive socket set, US: 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2
1/4 drive socket set, metric: 5, 5.5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 mm
Set of Torx bits: 1/4” Drive T8, T10, T15, T20, T25, and 3/8” drive T25, T27, T30, T40, T45, T50, T55
Impact sockets: 1/2” drive x 3/4” and 13/16”
Socket rails to organize above sockets
Combination wrench set, US: 1/4 to 7/8 by 1/16
Combination wrench set, metric: 7 to 21 mm
Screwdriver set: Standard, Phillips, and PosiDrive
Pliers:
 Slip joint
 Needle nose (recommend long neck with bent nose)
 Diagonal cutter
 9” channel lock type
 6” and/or 10” Locking (vice grip type)
Hammers:
 Ball peen : 8 oz and 20 oz
 Plastic tip or dead blow
Miscellaneous:
Pry bar: 16”
Brass drift
Tire Gauge, 0 - 50 psi
HEI Spark Tester
Ramp type Spark Plug Gap Gauge
Tire Valve Core Remover Tool
Ratchet, 3/8”
Ratchet, 1/4”
Drive adapter, 1/2” female to 3/8” male
Drive adapter, 3/8 female to 1/4” male
Drive extension sets: 1/4” and 3/8”
Brake return spring installer/remover
Allen sockets, 3/8” x 3/8” and 8mm x 3/8”
Spark plug boot removing pliers
Pocket Thermometer (analog or digital)
Non-powered test light
Tape measure, 25 foot
Brake Spring hold down tool
Brake adjusting spoon
Inspection Mirror
Magnetic Pick-up Tool
Small flashlight
Feeler gauge set
Punch and Chisel set
External and internal snap ring pliers set
Wire stripper / crimper pliers
5/16 insulated battery terminal box ratchet
Hook and Pick set
The following tools are recommended but optional. You will need these tools to be successful as a technician.
Self powered test light
Digital Multimeter
Torque Wrenches: 10-300 lb./in and 30 - 300 lb./ft
Utility knife
Drill bit set
Oil filter wrenches (3 sizes)
Steering wheel puller set
Tilt steering pivot pin puller
Steering wheel lock plate depressor/remover
Flare nut wrench set, US
Flare nut wrench set, Metric
Gasket scraper
Remote starter switch
Tubing cutter
36 mm drive axle nut socket
Swivel / universal spark plug sockets
3/8 or 1/2 hand impact drive
Adjustable wrench set (“crescent” wrench)
Bolt extractor set
Spark plug wire pliers
File set
3/8” air ratchet
1/2” air impact wrench
NATEF
Program Standards
Automobile
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
For every task in Electrical/Electronic Systems, the following safety requirement must be strictly enforced:
Comply with personal and environmental safety practices associated with clothing; eye protection; hand tools;
power equipment; proper ventilation; and the handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals/materials in
accordance with local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations.
VI.
A.
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
General Electrical System Diagnosis
1. Identify and interpret electrical/electronic system concern; determine necessary
action. P-1
2.
Research applicable vehicle and service information, such as electrical/electronic
system operation, vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service
bulletins. P-1
3.
Locate and interpret vehicle and major component identification numbers (VIN,
vehicle certification labels, and calibration decals). P-1
4.
Diagnose electrical/electronic integrity for series, parallel and series-parallel circuits
using principles of electricity (Ohm’s Law). P-1
5.
Use wiring diagrams during diagnosis of electrical circuit problems. P-1
6.
Demonstrate the proper use of a digital multimeter (DMM) during diagnosis of
electrical circuit problems. P-1
7.
Check electrical circuits with a test light; determine necessary action. P-2
8.
Measure source voltage and perform voltage drop tests in electrical/electronic
circuits using a voltmeter; determine necessary action. P-1
9.
Measure current flow in electrical/electronic circuits and components using an
ammeter; determine necessary action. P-1
10.
Check continuity and measure resistance in electrical/electronic circuits and
components using an ohmmeter; determine necessary action. P-1
11.
Check electrical circuits using fused jumper wires; determine necessary action. P-2
12.
Locate shorts, grounds, opens, and resistance problems in electrical/electronic
circuits; determine necessary action. P-1
13.
Measure and diagnose the cause(s) of excessive key-off battery drain (parasitic
draw); determine necessary action. P-1
14. Inspect and test fusible links, circuit breakers, and fuses; determine necessary action. P-1
15. Inspect and test switches, connectors, relays, solid state devices, and wires of
electrical/electronic circuits; perform necessary action. P-1
16.
Repair wiring harnesses and connectors. P-1
17. Perform solder repair of electrical wiring. P-1
VI.
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
B. Battery Diagnosis and Service
1. Perform battery state-of-charge test; determine necessary action. P-1
2. Perform battery capacity test; confirm proper battery capacity for vehicle
application; determine necessary action. P-1
3.
Maintain or restore electronic memory functions. P-1
4. Inspect, clean, fill, and replace battery. P-2
5. Perform slow/fast battery charge. P-2
6. Inspect and clean battery cables, connectors, clamps, and hold-downs; repair or
replace as needed. P-1
7.
VI.
C.
Start a vehicle using jumper cables and a battery or auxiliary power supply. P-1
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
Starting System Diagnosis and Repair
1. Perform starter current draw tests; determine necessary action. P-1
2. Perform starter circuit voltage drop tests; determine necessary action. P-1
3. Inspect and test starter relays and solenoids; determine necessary action. P-2
4.
Remove and install starter in a vehicle. P-1
5. Inspect and test switches, connectors, and wires of starter control circuits; perform
necessary action. P-2
6.
VI.
D.
Differentiate between electrical and engine mechanical problems that cause a slowcrank or no-crank condition. P-2
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
Charging System Diagnosis and Repair
1. Perform charging system output test; determine necessary action. P-1
2.
Diagnose charging system for the cause of undercharge, no-charge, and overcharge
conditions. P-1
3. Inspect, adjust, or replace generator (alternator) drive belts, pulleys, and tensioners;
check pulley and belt alignment. P-2
4.
Remove, inspect, and install generator (alternator). P-1
5.
Perform charging circuit voltage drop tests; determine necessary action. P-1
VI.
E.
1.
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
Lighting Systems Diagnosis and Repair
Diagnose the cause of brighter than normal, intermittent, dim, or no light operation;
determine necessary action. P-1
2. Inspect, replace, and aim headlights and bulbs. P-2
3. Inspect and diagnose incorrect turn signal or hazard light operation; perform
necessary action P-2
VI.
F.
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
Gauges, Warning Devices, and Driver Information Systems Diagnosis and
Repair
1. Inspect and test gauges and gauge sending units for cause of intermittent, high, low,
or no gauge readings; determine necessary action. P-1
2. Inspect and test connectors, wires, and printed circuit boards of gauge circuits;
determine necessary action. P-3
3.
Diagnose the cause of incorrect operation of warning devices and other driver
information systems; determine necessary action. P-1
4. Inspect and test sensors, connectors, and wires of electronic instrument circuits;
determine necessary action. P-2
VI.
G.
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
Horn and Wiper/Washer Diagnosis and Repair
1.
Diagnose incorrect horn operation; perform necessary action. P-2
2.
Diagnose incorrect wiper operation; diagnose wiper speed control and park
problems; perform necessary action. P-2
3.
Diagnose incorrect washer operation; perform necessary action. P-2
VI.
H.
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
Accessories Diagnosis and Repair
1.
Diagnose incorrect operation of motor-driven accessory circuits; determine
necessary action. P-2
2.
Diagnose incorrect heated glass operation; determine necessary action. P-3
3.
Diagnose incorrect electric lock operation; determine necessary action. P-2
4.
Diagnose incorrect operation of cruise control systems; determine necessary action.
P-3
5.
Diagnose supplemental restraint system (SRS) concerns; determine necessary
action. (Note: Follow manufacturer’s safety procedures to prevent accidental
deployment.) P-2
6.
Disarm and enable the airbag system for vehicle service. P-1
7.
Diagnose radio static and weak, intermittent, or no radio reception; determine
necessary action. P-3
8.
Remove and reinstall door panel. P-1
9.
Diagnose body electronic system circuits using a scan tool; determine necessary
action. P-2
10.
Check for module communication errors using a scan tool. P-3
11.
Diagnose the cause of false, intermittent, or no operation of anti-theft system. P-2
Auto 220: Electrical Systems
Special Project
Name: _____________________________
200 points
Objective: Upon completion of this project, you will have a more complete knowledge of one facet of the
electrical/electronic systems available in current vehicles and be able to share that knowledge with others.
General Guidelines: You will prepare an instructional video of yourself and your partner performing an Electrical
repair on a vehicle. It would be advised that you follow a lab for a guide but you may do any repair you wish; as long
as it is Electrical/Electronic related. You may (I recommend) work with a partner. No Groups. You will be
responsible for arranging a time to use the camera. The instructor will show you how to set it up but you are
responsible for filming/directing. The intent of these videos is to be put on the schools’ youtube.com page. This
way when someone searches for a repair on their Electrical system; you will be showing them what to do.
Grading criteria:
Identify Yourself and Your Class
20pts
Proper Inspection/Identification of failed component
20pts
Proper Removal/Reinstallation Procedure
50pts
Proper Explanation as You are Performing Repairs
(terms and grammar)
50pts
Properly Verify Repair
10pts
Camera Work/Editing
50pts
Total
200pts
Due Date:
All projects must be completed and submitted for approval by April 14 th to allot for proper time to grade.
No Exceptions
COURSE ASSIGNMENTS
BIBLIOGRAPHY