Automotive General Services Technician Model

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Lesson Plan Industry Sector
Transportation

Lesson Plan Originally Created By: Dennis Johnson

**Automatic Transmission Service (updated) by Dennis Johnson

Part of Unit: Transmissions and Drivetrains

Lesson Plan Overview / Details

In this lesson, students will learn how to inspect, maintain and service automatic transmission and trans axles.

Lesson Time

Objectives and Goals

  • Student will be able to check fluid level and locate transmission leak
  • Student will be able to change automatic trans fluid and filter

Activities in this Lesson

  • Pay Me Now or Pay Me Later - Hooks / Set

    As students enter classroom, they will watch a video clip of a vehicle with an engine revving high with the car barely moving.  I will have students write down and describe what they think is wrong with the vehicle. I will give them about 5-7 min to complete this activity while roll is taken.

    After a few minutes, I will ask students what they think is wrong.  We will have a group discussion about the video clip to allow students and the instructor the opportunity to share experiences with the class.

  • Inspection How To - Lecture

    I will discuss the importance of automotive transmission service, what the service includes, types of transmission service, and how often it should be done (service interval).

    In Chapter 58 Automatic Transmision Service theory work we will cover the difference between "drain and fill," which only removes a portion of the transmission fluid, and a "complete flush," which removes all the fluid including fluid from the torque convertor. This process or technique requires a transmission fluid flush machine. 

    Students will need to refer to an owners manual or on-line information system to determine if their vehicle has a replacement trans filter.  Many vehicles do not have a serviceable trans filter. 

    I will show video clips which include how to perform a fluid level inspection, types of trans fluids, trans pan removal and filter replacement.  I will give students two task sheets: one to complete during lecture, and one to utilize in the lab. Students will follow along and take notes during this session to use during their own transmission inspection and service.

  • Checking Transmission Fluid - Demo / Modeling

    Safety First!!!  Students will get their safety glasses, sample inspection task sheet, and the two remaining blank inspection sheets and follow instructor into the shop for demonstration on how to perform and inspection.  Instructor will demonstrate where to check fluid as well as how the fluid should be checked.  Instructor will inform students they should always use a lint free cloth to avoid any lint or other contaminants entering the trans.

    Once students have observed a demonstration on fluid level inspection and condition, the instructor will demonstrate proper procedure for changing the transmission fluid and filter while inspecting for leaks.

    1)  Lift the vehicle and support following safety procedures previously taught during vehicle hoist/floor jack safety.

    2)  Locate transmission oil pan. Drain the fluid from the transmission. WARNING: When draining automatic transmission fluid, be careful not to be burned by the HOT fluid.

    3)  On some vehicles without a drain bolt, complete removal of the transmission pan may be required to drain the fluid. Remove the pan, keep it level and lower it slowly to prevent spilling fluid.  Use suitable drain pan to dispose old fluid.

    4)  Inspect pan for debris: Bits of metal or friction material may indicate transmission problems.

    5)  Clean inside the transmission pan thoroughly.

    6)  Locate the transmission filter and match up the new replacement filter with the old one to insure correct part. Remove old filter and install new transmission filter.

    7) Re-install the transmission oil pan.  If sealer is used on the pan, make sure you do not use too much. Excess sealer squeezed insidepan during installation may block fluid passages and upset transmission operation.

    8)  Install the transmission pan. Torque the pan bolts to specifications in a crisscross pattern.  For torque specifications, refer to service manual or online information system such as ALL DATA.

    9) Fill the transmission with correct fluid type and amount. Capacity will vary depending on model of vehicle refer to service manual for proper fluid type and capacity specifications.

    10)  Start the engine. Shift the transmission through it's gears. Check for leaks, and re-check fluid level.

  • Fluid Level Inspection - Group Work

    Instructor will have students gather into groups of three, assign them a vehicle, and ask them to locate the transmission fluid dipstick on the transmission.

    Once they have done this, instructor will ask them to follow the procedures demonstrated to them and check the transmission fluid level and condition on their vehicles.  Also indicate condition of fluid by using visual, smell, and feel strategies. Students will need to determine the condition of the fluid, fluid level, and if the transmission needs to be serviced. I will ask them to record their findings on the inspection sheet during this task. 

    During the inspections and after they have completed their forms, instructor will have students perform spot inspections of the other teams and their work and documentation.

  • Clean-Up - Closure

    Instructor will have students clean their work area, secure the vehicles, and ensure that the dirty shop towels are properly disposed.  Instructor will discuss the importance of cleaning their work area as well as verify that their work area as well as their work was done and meets industry standards.  Instructor will discuss the following items:  Did they get it and can they perform task? Instructor will inform students that we will continue with trans fluid and filter replacement, and leak inspection.

Assessment

Assessment Types:
Demonstrations, Observations,

Instructor will monitor the students during the lecture and ask questions about the material being taught to ensure students understand the information.  Instructor will monitor the students in the lab and ensure they are following shop safety as well as answer any questions that may arise.