Light Vehicle Automatic Transmission Gearbox Maintenance

The course is directed to auto mechanics and persons who have a good sound knowledge on how vehicles operate. This course is intended for all those who would like to have a general idea on how automatic transmission gearboxes function on light vehicles. The knowledge provided is structured specifically to make candidates more familiar with the main basic features and types of these devises found on light petrol and diesel vehicles. 

The course is 30 hours long.  Lessons are held as indicated on the prospectus and website. 

During this course learners will be provided with basic information on how light vehicle automatic transmission gearbox function. This course is mainly geared for those persons who would like to have some information on how automatic transmission function on light vehicles. 

Learning Outcome 1: Classify the main components of a typical automatic gearbox found on light vehicles 

Unit Content 

• Introduction to automatic transmission / transaxle types and their function. Advantages and disadvantages of having a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission.  
• General introduction on Automatic transmission; types of automatic gearbox;   auto gearbox main components; governor, pump, planetary gear sets; clutch packs; valve body; brake bands; seals & gaskets; one way clutches; torque convertor; park mechanism; the ECU.
• Understanding the function of the main components of the automatic transmission and transaxle units
• Become familiar on how the gearbox function and what a person should check to assess for proper function  of the automatic gearbox. 
• The hydraulic system of the transmission explained in detail, adjustments and how to perform safely hydraulic pressure tests.
•  Types of oils used and their characteristics 
• Gear ratios and how different ratios are selected including explanation and the function of the planetary gear sets. 
• Park control; 1^stnd/ L2; 3^rd/D mode shift mechanism;  4^th / overdrive gear mechanism.  Typical gear ratios

Learning Outcome 2: Perform basic and preliminary test to diagnose automatic transmission faults

Unit Content 

• Test procedures, fault finding and diagnostics on mechanical and electronic components of the transmission. 
• Stall test;  leak test; fault diagnose procedures; procedure to diagnose torque convertor 

Learning Outcome 3: Carry out basic maintenance procedures on automatic gearboxes 

Unit Content 

• Servicing, testing and adjustments on major parts of the transmission and shift leaver adjustments. 
• Oil pressure test; Kick down cable adjustment; diagnose the electronic control 
• Overhauling procedures, special tools used safely and automatic transmission cooling system 
• Tools used  and Safety precautions required  the overhaul safely of an automatic gearbox, Proper beading techniques 

Learning Outcome 4: Select the appropriate type of lubricants needed for these type of gearboxes 

Unit Content

• Lubricants used for automatic transmissions, and understanding abbreviations used in technical books such as repair manuals.  
• Types of ATF oil used:  Dextron 2 & 3; service intervals

Learning Outcome 5: Describe the main safety precautions needed to work safely on automatic transmission unit 

Unit Content 

• Demonstration and safety precautions that should be observed during removal and refitting the transmission unit. 
• Procedures to carry out in order to dismantle and refit and transmission gearbox 
• Demonstration on the transmission unit and internal components.

The following are the suggested pre-requisites and/or entry requirements needed:               

Pre-Requisite: 

• Learners need to have good knowledge of vehicle maintenance.
• Learners need to have basic skills  in motor vehicle engineering knowledge 

Entry-Requirements: 

• Learners must be  over 18 years of age

And

• Learners must have an MQF Level 3 in motor vehicle engineering or 3 years experience in the field. Applicants should provide an ETC Employment History Sheet showing this working experience. 

An MCAST Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to all students attending more than 80% of lectures. 

The course includes an assessment that enables the Lecturer to provide feedback to the student.  However, if the student prefers not to undertake the assessment, a Certificate of Attendance will still be issued provided that the student fulfils the attendance criteria (as stated above).

Candidates will have to make a copy of the notes provided by the lecturer themselves. Also the lecturer might ask the students to bring oil, gloves and cloth to do practical work.