Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists — Tasks

Task statements

• Use handtools, such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, pressure gauges, or precision instruments, as well as power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches, lathes, welding equipment, or jacks and hoists.
• Inspect brake systems, steering mechanisms, wheel bearings, and other important parts to ensure that they are in proper operating condition.
• Raise trucks, buses, and heavy parts or equipment using hydraulic jacks or hoists.
• Adjust and reline brakes, align wheels, tighten bolts and screws, and reassemble equipment.
• Attach test instruments to equipment, and read dials and gauges to diagnose malfunctions.
• Perform routine maintenance such as changing oil, checking batteries, and lubricating equipment and machinery.
• Examine and adjust protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices.
• Inspect, test, and listen to defective equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test instruments such as handheld computers, motor analyzers, chassis charts, or pressure gauges.
• Rewire ignition systems, lights, and instrument panels.
• Test drive trucks and buses to diagnose malfunctions or to ensure that they are working properly.
• Diagnose and repair vehicle heating and cooling systems.
• Inspect, repair, and maintain automotive and mechanical equipment and machinery, such as pumps and compressors.
• Inspect and verify dimensions and clearances of parts to ensure conformance to factory specifications.
• Disassemble and overhaul internal combustion engines, pumps, generators, transmissions, clutches, and differential units.
• Adjust or repair computer controlled exhaust emissions devices.
• Rebuild gas or diesel engines.
• Specialize in repairing and maintaining parts of the engine, such as fuel injection systems.
• Recondition and replace parts, pistons, bearings, gears, and valves.
• Install or repair accessories.
• Repair or adjust seats, doors, or windows.
• Dismount, mount, and repair or replace tires.
• Align front ends and suspension systems.
• Maintain or repair vehicles with alternative fuel systems, including biodiesel, hybrid, or compressed natural gas vehicles.
• Measure vehicle emissions to determine whether they are within acceptable limits.
• Follow green operational practices involving conservation of water or energy or reduction of solid waste.
• Operate valve-grinding machines to grind and reset valves.