Diesel Power Tech

| Northeast MS Community College

Because of their great durability and efficiency, diesel engines are used to power most of the nation's heavy vehicles and equipment.  Diesel mechanics repair and maintain diesel engines that power transportation equipment, such as heavy trucks, buses; construction equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, and road graders; and farm equipment such as tractors and combines.

In many shops, diesel mechanics do all kinds of repairs, working on a vehicle's electrical system one day and doing major engine repairs the next.  Diesel mechanics use a variety of tools and testing equipment in their work.

The Diesel Power Technology Program prepares the graduate for employment in the field of diesel mechanics through practical experience in overhauling and repairing engines, fuel injection systems, transmissions, clutches, rear ends; troubleshooting procedures, studying pneumatic and hydraulic systems, electrical systems, power trains, and other basic fundamentals relative to diesel mechanics.

Program Components

Diesel engine types, reassembly, break-in procedures and troubleshooting

Diesel fuel injection system with calibration, electrical systems, starters/alternators, and schematic wiring diagrams

Power train systems and mechanical and power shift transmissions

Hydraulic systems, pumps, valves and motors, together with cylinder parts

Hydrostatic drives, final drives, and differentials and torque converters

Employment Outlook:  Employment of diesel mechanics is expected to increase about as fast as average for all occupations as freight transportation by truck increases.  More trucks will be needed for both local and intercity hauling due to the increased production of goods.  Construction vehicles and automobiles with diesel engines will also demand attention during this decade and beyond.