Automotive Machinist Engine Block Machining Course Objectives
The program objective of Automotive Engine/Block Machining is to qualify the student as an automotive machinist. Although the actual machining process will be the emphasis of the program, a thorough education on theory of operation of the modem automotive engine will be presented. Performance modifications effect on power, longevity, and emissions, will be highlighted throughout the different courses.
This program is intended for the mechanically inclined student with a desire to work in the automotive industry.
One semester credit hour for each fifteen (15) hours of classroom contact plus appropriate outside preparation or the equivalent: or one semester credit hour for each thirty (30) hours of laboratory work plus appropriate outside preparation: or one semester credit hour for not fewer than forty-five (45) hours of shop instruction (contact hours) or the equivalent.
Single subjects making up this program are not offered individually. See the Equipment List Addendum for a complete list of machines used in the Automotive Engine/Block Machining program.
This course provides a general introduction to the industry work environment including customer relations, work orders, build-sheets, and parts acquisition. Introduction to, and familiarization with the use of precision measurement and specialized, as well as, basic hand tools required will also be covered. Special emphasis is placed on both personal and shop safety due to the nature of potentially hazardous equipment.
The procedures of careful inspection and precise measurement technologies is taught. Combining this information, with the proper applications, formulas, and machinist math will be covered to provide a solid basis for successful production and high performance engine assembly procedures.
The student will explore the basic theory and concepts of internal combustion engine operation, and then move into more specific and complex areas including torque, airflow, volumetric efficiency, operating cycles, and horsepower. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 8.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the operation of an engine dynamometer to confirm performance modifications and durability. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
Blueprinting; the art of producing maximum capable horsepower, torque, volumetric efficiency, and R.P.M. through precise component assembly relationships will be taught. The effects of camshaft selection, degreeing, and valve timing in relation to cylinder pressure will be studied. Students will learn the real mystery of high performance
The student will learn and practice the key elements of balancing a rotating assembly to insure the crankshaft counterweights offset the rotating and recipitating forces created by pistons and rods. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 11.25 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student learns the effects of camshaft selection, degreeing, and valve timing in relation to cylinder pressure, will be studied. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 24.37 hours of outside the classroom work.
Students will learn material selection, clearance, and proper assembly of the internal combustion engine bearings and modifications for high load/high RPM’s racing engines. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The students learn the understanding of the relationship between pistons and rings as used in the high-performance engine application. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 11.25 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the importance of fueling and igniting the engine cylinders for max reliable power utilizing power speed calculators and weather station data to produce consistent reliable power. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the individual components, their function, design, material composition, and differences. This includes the relationship of the individual pieces to each other and the assembly as a whole. Production and performance variations will also be discussed. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
Ring filing to set gaps for specific engine power ranges and race applications. Ring fitting in actual finished cylinders is included. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
Students will learn to calculate four different cylinder wall measurements Average Roughness (Ra), Core Roughness (Rk), Reduced Pick Height (Rpk), and Reduced Valley Depth (Rvk). Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student learns the techniques of thorough examination and evaluation during disassembly to correctly diagnose potential problems, engine failure, and component replacement. Cleaning methods for both cast iron and aluminum are covered, including the impact of current environmental concerns. Additionally, crack detection methods and casting repairs are also covered. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student learns the set-up and operation procedures for the machining equipment. They will also learn the procedures used to complete the machining of block and component parts. The differences between standard and high-performance applications will be highlighted. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 26.25 hours of outside the classroom work.
The primary focus of this course is mastering the art of assembling precisely machined components into a complete operating engine, not only basic rebuild practices but blue printing specifications for different horsepower levels. The student will learn cam degreeing with consideration of application and referencing piston to valve clearance. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 22.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will experience setting up and running an engine dynamometer. This will include engine break-in, optimization of torque & horsepower while monitoring ignition timing and air fuel ratio. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student is prepared to enter the work force by learning the importance of personal appearance, conduct, attitude and mechanical aptitude. Job search techniques, the application process, effective resume composition, and interviewing skills are covered. Career goal setting, steps toward self-employment, and job placement assistance is covered. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
