COURSE SYLLABUS      
 
Diesel Engine Testing and Repair I 
 
 
DEMR 1410 
 
2   ‐   4    ‐    4  
Lecture ‐ Lab ‐ Credit 
 
Prerequisites 
 
None 
 
This syllabus has been reviewed and is current on the date indicated. 
 
Prepared By 
Shannon Weir                                                    07/28/2015 
Instructor                                                                Date 
 
Reviewed by 
Mark Koslan                                                       08/04/2015 
Program Chairman                                                Date 
 
Diesel Engine Testing and Repair I 
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I. Instructor Information   

Name: Shannon Weir  Phone office/cell: 325.235.8287 
Campus Office: Bld. 4DSM Rm. 103  email: sdweir@tstc.edu 
Office Hours: Mon.‐Thu. 3:00pm‐ Advisement Hours: Mon.‐Thu. 3:00pm‐4:00pm 
4:00pm Fri.12:00pm‐1:00pm  Fri. 12:00pm‐1:00pm 
Department Chair: Mark Koslan  email: mark.koslan@tstc.edu 
 
II. Class Times, Location 

Mon‐Tue: 9:00am‐3:55pm Building:  TBA 
Wed: 9:00am ‐2:55pm Building:  TBA 
 
III. Course Description & Introduction

An introduction to testing and repairing diesel engines including related systems and specialized
tools.

This course is part of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) set forth by TSTC West Texas starting
in Fall 2014. The goal of the QEP is to strengthen student skills in reading, writing and math by
demonstrating relevancy to their classes and career. These areas were identified by industry
advisors as essential skills needed for success in the Texas workforce. To fulfill the objectives of
the QEP, this course contains activities and assignments that integrate technical skills with reading,
writing, and math concepts. Members of TSTC West Texas faculty developed the coursework in
this class with both program objectives and these foundational skills in mind. The overall grade for
this technical course will be based on assignments that grade both technical and relevant reading,
writing, and/or math skills.

IV. Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of the Diesel Engine Testing & Repair I class, students will be able to:
Chapter 1: Introduction to Diesel Engines
 List reasons diesel engines are more efficient than gasoline engines.
 Define and explain how compression ignition is used in a diesel engine.
 Name major advantages and disadvantages of diesel fuel.
 Explain in simple terms how electronic engine controls work and why they have been
introduced on all modern mobile diesel engines.
 Name the major applications for diesel engines in modern industry and

Chapter 4: Principles of Engine Operation

 Define the most popular diesel engine configurations.
 Name the two types of combustion chamber designs.
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 Explain the difference between direct and indirect fuel injection.

 List the functions of the fuel injection system and name the five types of fuel injection
systems Explain the operating principles and interaction of the major diesel engine
components, such as the cylinder block, cylinder head, valve train, and accessory items.
 Explain the difference between two-stroke and four-stroke engines.
 Explain the basics of both two and four cycle valve timing used in modern systems.
 Explain the basic performance terms and formulas, such as bore, stroke, compression
ratio, volumetric efficiency, horsepower, and torque.

Chapter 5: Engine Blocks

 Explain how to gain access to the components in a stationary engine.
 Explain how to remove a mobile engine from its installation.
 Describe how to remove the basic parts from a mobile diesel engine block.
 Name two popular methods used to clean engine blocks.
 Conduct a cylinder block inspection.
 Inspect a cylinder and liner.
 Name the two types of cylinder liners
 Describe how to install a cylinder liner.

Chapter 6: Crankshafts
 Explain the purpose of a crankshaft.
 Recognize common crankshaft terminology.
 Describe the various crankshaft classifications.
 Inspect a crankshaft for defects.
 Describe methods used to recondition a crankshaft.
 Describe the purpose of the flywheel and vibration damper.

Chapter 7: Pistons, Rings, and Connecting Rods

 Explain the functions of the piston.
 Name the key parts of a piston and detail what they do.
 Describe piston service.
 Explain the functions of piston rings.
 Describe how to install piston rings.
 Explain the function of the connecting rod.
 Describe how to install a piston assembly into a cylinder block.

Chapter 8: Cylinder Heads and Related Components

 List the parts that are attached to the cylinder head.
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 Explain cylinder head disassembly procedures.

 Explain how to check for cracks and leaks in a cylinder head.
 Name five problems common to cylinder heads.
 Describe the service of valves and related components.

Chapter 9: Camshaft and Valve Train Components

 Remove and replace a diesel engine camshaft.
 Explain the operation of the valve train components.
 Determine the causes of valve guide wear.
 Describe the operation of a gear train.
 Identify and explain the purpose of various components of the valve timing drive
assembly.
 Explain how to assemble valve train components.

Chapter 11: Cooling Systems

 Explain the purpose of a diesel engine cooling system.
 Describe the cooling system’s basic components and explain their operation.
 Describe the difference between air and liquid cooling systems.
 Describe the major components of a diesel liquid cooling system.
 Explain how a thermostat regulates engine temperature.
 Explain why cooling system filters and conditioners are used.
 Describe coolant pump operation.
 Explain how an industrial diesel engine’s heat exchanger works.
 Name the four types of cooling systems used with marine diesel engine applications.

Chapter 26: Engine Reassembly and Installation

 Outline the procedures for reassembling a completely overhauled diesel engine.
 Explain the proper methods of engine run‐in using engine dynamometers, chassis
dynamometers, and in‐vehicle run‐in procedures.
 List the situations when sealer should be applied to fittings, plugs, and fasteners.
 Explain the procedures for pre‐lubrication and preparing the engine for startup and run‐
in.
 Outline the steps for reinstalling the engine in the vehicle.

Professional Expectations Covered in this Course

 By the end of the Diesel Engine Testing & Repair I class, students will be able to:
 Locate explicit textual information, draw complex inferences, and describe,
 Analyze, and evaluate the information within and across multiple texts of varying
lengths.
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 Comprehend and use vocabulary effectively in oral communication, reading, and writing.
 Identify and analyze the audience, purpose, and message across a variety of texts.
 Describe and apply insights gained from reading and writing a variety of texts.
 Compose a variety of texts that demonstrate reading comprehension, clear focus on
logical development of ideas, and use of appropriate language that advance the writer’s
purpose.
 Determine and use effective approaches and rhetorical strategies for given reading and
writing situations.
 Generate ideas and gather information relevant to the topic and purpose, incorporating
the ideas and words of other writers in student writing using established strategies.
 Evaluate relevance and quality of ideas and information in recognizing, formulating, and
developing a claim.
 Develop and use effective reading and revision strategies to strengthen the writer’s ability
to compose college‐level writing assignments.
 Recognize and apply the conventions of standard English in reading and writing

V. Assessment Methods & Grading Policy

Lab 40%
Final Skills Test 20%
Daily Lab Grade 20%
(Completion of the Lab Sheet is the minimum requirements)
Exams 40%
Chapter Tests 20%
Final Written Test 20%
Attendance 20%

Lab- This course is hands-on intensive and therefore lab exercises are an integral
part of the course.
Homework or assignments may be given to enhance the understanding of lecture
material.
Exams will cover course material that has been presented up to test date.
Class participation- all students will be graded on participation in class discussion
and presence in class. Students whose absences exceed 15 percent of the scheduled
Lecture and Lab sessions will not receive a passing grade for the course.

A= 90-100, B= 80-89, C= 70-79, D= 60-69, F= 59-Below

VI. Textbook/ebook/Reference Materials (including Websites)

Diesel Engine Testing and Repair I 
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DIESEL TECHNOLOGY - Eighth edition – Norman / Corinchock

ISBN: 978-1-61960-832-0

VII. Additional Resources & Supplies

Pen, paper, and textbook

Basic tool set
Safety glasses
Notebook
Pen/pencil
Calculator

VIII. Class Participation Policy & Student Conduct

Students are expected to attend all lectures and labs. Absences totaling 10.5 hours or
more could result in a failing grade. Students are expected to be respectful to others in
class.

IX. Safety
 Campus building occupants are required to evacuate buildings when a fire alarm
activates. Alarm activation or announcement requires exiting and assembling outside.
 Familiarize yourself with all exit doors of each classroom and building you may occupy
while receiving instructions. The nearest exit door may not be the door you used when
entering the building.
 Students requiring evacuation assistance should inform the instructor during the first
week of class.
 In the event of evacuation, follow the faculty’s or class instructor’s instructions.
 Do Not re-enter a building unless given instructions by the Fire Department,
Campus/Local Police, or Fire Prevention Services.

X. Special Needs

If you have a documented disability that will impact your work in this class, please
contact the ADA Coordinator, so that appropriate arrangements for your accommodations
can be made. The counselor on your campus can assist you in this process. In accordance
with the federal law, a student requesting accommodations must provide documentation
of his/her disability to the ADA Coordinator. For more information call (325) 236-
8292 or email amy.freeman@tstc.edu.

XI. Course Schedule

Week 1: Introduction
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After completing the Reading, Homework and Lab Assignments, you should be able to:
 List reasons diesel engines are more efficient than gasoline engines.
 Define and explain how compression ignition is used in a diesel engine.
 Name major advantages and disadvantages of diesel fuel.
 Explain in simple terms how electronic engine controls work and why they have been
introduced on all modern mobile diesel engines.
 Name the major applications for diesel engines in modern industry and transportation.
 Name several key milestones in the development of the diesel engine.
 Explain how to gain access to the components in a stationary engine.
 Explain how to remove a mobile engine from its installation.
 Describe how to remove the basic parts from a mobile diesel engine block.
 Name two popular methods used to clean engine blocks.
 Conduct a cylinder block inspection.
 Inspect a cylinder and liner.
 Name the two types of cylinder liners.
 Describe how to install a cylinder liner.
 List areas in which you can obtain a position servicing diesel engines.
 Name the various specializations in the diesel field.
 Discuss ASE Certification.
 List the types of questions and test categories in the ASE test battery.

Deliverables
Due Date
Reading Course Orientation Monday, 3pm
Read Textbook Chapters 1, 4 and 5. Tuesday, 3pm
Wednesday,9am

Homework Write a definition for the 5 Important Terms

listed at the end of each chapter that you
were least familiar with before reading this
chapter.
Complete Review Questions at the end of TBA
each chapter.
Complete ASE Questions at the end of each
chapter.
Lab Assignments Lab station assignments
Terms & Definitions Lab (opportunity to
include for each chapter throughout
course).
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Exam Chapter 1,4,5 Wednesday 2pm

Week 2 : Crankshafts, Pistons, Rings, Connecting Rods

After completing the Reading, Homework and Lab Assignments, you will be able to:
 Explain the purpose of a crankshaft.
 Recognize common crankshaft terminology.
 Describe the various crankshaft classifications.
 Inspect a crankshaft for defects.
 Describe methods used to recondition a crankshaft.
 Describe the purpose of the flywheel and vibration damper.
 Explain the functions of the piston.
 Name the key parts of a piston and detail what they do.
 Describe piston service.
 Explain the functions of piston rings.
 Describe how to install piston rings.
 Explain the function of the connecting rod.
 Describe how to install a piston assembly into a cylinder block.

Deliverables
Due Date
Reading Read Textbook Chapter 6 and 7 Monday, 9am
Homework Write a definition for the 5 Important Terms
listed at the end of each chapter that you Wednesday 2pm
were least familiar with before reading this
chapter.
Complete Review Questions at the end of
each chapter.
Complete ASE Questions at the end of each
chapter.
Lab Assignments Chapter 6 and 7 TBA
Exam Chapters 6 and 7 Wednesday 2pm

Week 3: Cylinder Heads and Valve Train Components

After completing the Reading, Homework and Lab Assignments, you will be able to:
 List the parts that are attached to the cylinder head.
 Explain cylinder head disassembly procedures.
 Explain how to check for cracks and leaks in a cylinder head.
 Name five problems common to cylinder heads.
 Describe the service of valves and related components.
 Remove and replace a diesel engine camshaft.
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 Explain the operation of the valve train components.

 Determine the causes of valve guide wear.
 Describe the operation of a gear train.
 Identify and explain the purpose of various components of the valve timing drive
assembly.
 Explain how to assemble valve train components. 

Deliverables
Due Date
Reading Read Textbook Chapters 8 and 9 Monday, 9am
Homework Write a definition for the 5 Important Terms
listed at the end of each chapter that you Wednesday 2pm
were least familiar with before reading this
chapter.
Complete Review Questions at the end of
each chapter. Wednesday 2pm
Complete ASE Questions at the end of each
chapter.
Lab Assignments Lab Assignment TBA
Exam Chapters 8 and 9 Wednesday 2pm
Week 4: Cooling Systems and Engine Assembly
After completing the Reading, Homework and Lab Assignments, you will be able to:
 Explain the purpose of a diesel engine cooling system.
 Describe the cooling system’s basic components and explain their operation.
 Describe the difference between air and liquid cooling systems.
 Describe the major components of a diesel liquid cooling system.
 Explain how a thermostat regulates engine temperature.

 Explain why cooling system filters and conditioners are used.

 Describe coolant pump operation.
 Explain how an industrial diesel engine’s heat exchanger works.
 Name the four types of cooling systems used with marine diesel engine applications.
 Outline the procedures for reassembling a completely overhauled diesel engine.
 Explain the proper methods of engine run‐in using engine dynamometers, chassis
 dynamometers, and in‐vehicle run‐in procedures.
 List the situations when sealer should be applied to fittings, plugs, and fasteners.
 Explain the procedures for pre‐lubrication and preparing the engine for startup and run‐
in.
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Course Syllabus Page 10

 Outline the steps for reinstalling the engine in the vehicle.

Deliverables
Due Date
Reading Chapters 11 and 26 Monday,9am
Homework Write a definition for the 5 Important Terms
listed at the end of each chapter that you
were least familiar with before reading this
chapter. Wednesday 2pm
Complete Review Questions at the end of
each chapter.
Complete ASE Questions at the end of each
chapter
Lab Assignments Complete assigned lab assignments TBA
Exam Chapter 11 and 26 Wednesday 2pm

Week 5: Review for Final Exam

Prepare for successful completion of the Engines I course.

Deliverables
Due Date
Reading Review Chapters 1,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 26 Monday,9am
Homework Review completed homework assignments Wednesday12pm
for each chapter in preparation of final exam.
Review previous exams in preparation of
final exam.
Lab Assignments Complete any lab assignments previously
incomplete.
Review all completed lab assignments and TBA
worksheets in preparation of final exam.
Exam Chapters 1,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11,and 26 Wednesday 1pm
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XII. Instructor CV – Shannon D. Weir

Education
Name of Institution Degree Earned Date Earned
Texas State Technical College Associates of Applied Science December
2009

Certifications
Date Expires
Name of Certification
Date Earned
Texas Class A CDL drivers license Current
April 1990
ASE Master Certified Heavy Duty Technician Current
November
2010

Industry, Teaching or Training, and Other

Experience Relevant To Course
Date Ended
Description of Experience Related To Course
Date Began
Texas State Technical College – Diesel Instructor – responsible for teaching Current
students course related content Position
August 2013
John Deere-Diesel Technician July 2013
April 2011
February
Bruckner’s Truck Sales(Mack and Volvo dealer)-Diesel Technician 2010
June 2012
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Student Acknowledgement:

This is to acknowledge that I have received a copy of the syllabus for the course DEMR 1410

Diesel Engine Testing and Repair. I understand that it is my responsibility to read and understand

the syllabus and to abide by the guidelines presented therein.

__________________________________ ________________________________

Student Printed Name Signature

_______________
Date