Affinia Group Inc.'s Under Vehicle Group has released the 2006 training class schedule for its Raybestos brand brakes and Spicer Professional Grade Chassis components.
All classes will take place at the group's headquarters located in McHenry about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. Prices for the various programs range from $120 to $545 depending on course duration. The company said it plans to offer the following courses:
* Brake systems diagnosis and repair (TC-100)-A four-day curriculum geared for advanced technicians or a ``quick study,'' the course includes classroom and hands-on instruction. The program will focus on hydraulic braking theory and brake system dynamics, and will include diagnostics and trouble-shooting techniques, repair techniques and preventive maintenance practices. Drum and rotor resurfacing techniques, along with bench and on-the-car lathe operation and maintenance, as well as a review of brake noise and solutions and friction material also will be covered.
* ASE brake test preparation (TC-101)-The three-day course will provide information and training needed to help technicians prepare for ASE Brake Test A5. Topics will include hydraulic theory, brake system dynamics, brake fluids, anti-lock braking systems (ABS) operation and Maintenance Awareness Program (MAP) guidelines. Test questions and practical lab exercises are used to help reinforce knowledge, Affinia said.
* Brake lathe and equipment (TC-102)-The one-day course provides detailed hands-on instruction on bench type and on-car type brake lathes. It will address proper methods of equipment setup, machining and mounting techniques required to resurface both cast and composite rotors and drums, as well as the proper use of micrometers, dial indicators and profilometers.
* Brake system diagnostics and installation procedures (TC-103)-A one-day course, it will provide hands-on brake service work utilizing recommended original equipment (OE) late model service installation procedures. Diagnosing and correcting total indicated run-out will be covered with a variety of methods including indexing rotor-to-hub, brake align shims, on-car lathe and traditional bench lathe. The course is geared both as a review and update for seasoned technicians or apprentices.
* Servicing brakes on ABS-equipped vehicles (TC-104)-The course involves a combination of classroom and hands-on training on vehicles equipped with ABS. Students will focus on system component identification, function and diagnostic techniques, according to Affinia. Topics will include ABS system operation, service precautions and preventive maintenance.
* Fundamentals of electricity (TC-105)-This intermediate-level course's objective is understanding theory, principles and fundamentals of electricity, and the three types of electrical circuits and their laws. It will cover theory and test procedures required to properly diagnose ABS and other electronic devices.
* Kelsey Hayes, Delphi and Teves ABS systems (TC-106)-The course features intensive classroom and hands-on vehicle diagnostic training, Affinia said, to service Kelsey Hayes, Delphi VI and Teves ABS properly. Diagnostic equipment, service strategies and wiring schematics will be the primary focus, with instruction on popular hand-held scanners.
* ABS advanced diagnostic and service (TC-107)-Four days of in-depth ABS instruction is featured in this course, which is recommended for individuals who have had previous brake training or have completed course TC-100, TC-104 and/or TC-106. Topics will include hydraulic and electrical theory and electronic control components. Traction control systems also will be discussed in relationship to ABS controllers.
* ABS service tips (TC-108)-This 16-hour course provides a technician with the latest information for commonly asked questions on ABS operation, including diagnostic procedures, trouble code retrieval, clearing and bleeding procedures. Affinia said technicians will be exposed to little-known and mostly unpublished service, diagnostic repair information and procedures that have been field-proven by experienced technicians.
* Suspension and steering fundamentals (TC-109)-Focusing on the foundation of chassis, steering, suspension and wheel alignment service, the course will explore the theory of design, suspension and steering fundamentals and an understanding of why certain designs and systems are used on various types of vehicles. Parts identification, function, inspection procedures and diagnostics and inspection specifications also will be covered.
* ASE suspension and steering test preparation (TC-110)-This three-day course provides techs with information and training needed to help prepare for ASE Suspension and Steering Test A4. Topics to be discussed include steering and suspension system diagnosis and repair, alignment angles, alignment procedures, reading tire wear patterns and wheel bearing problems. Practice ASE tests will be given and discussed.
* Advanced chassis and alignment (TC-111)-The theory and application of thrust type and four-wheel alignments will be explored in this three-day training course. Basic and advanced alignment angles will be covered as well as how raising or lowering vehicles affects them. Alignment products such as shims and cams will be discussed and installed on various types of vehicles. Variable-effort steering and different types of electronic suspension diagnostics and repair procedures also will be covered.
* Chassis and alignment diagnostics and installation procedures (TC-112)-This one-day class will cover up-to-date problems being experienced in the field by technicians. Topics will include diagnosing and repairing steering and suspension systems that are causing high rates of problems, proper checking techniques and use of the proper parts for a vehicle, such as low friction design.
The company said at least five participants are required in order to hold a class, so early registration is recommended. Full payment is due to reserve a place in class.
For dates courses will be offered, registration and more information, contact Affinia at (800) 274-4631 or contact Lynn Konsbruck via e-mail at: [email protected] The company's Web site is at www.affiniagroup.com.