TTCE 608G - Small Engine Maintenance (Gas and Diesel) Micro-Credential
Course Description
For the hobbyist or homeowner or boat owner who wants to learn how to do their own basic trouble-shooting and maintenance on 2-stroke and 4-stroke gas engines in addition to diesel engines. This practical course uses classroom, demos, and hands-on sessions to present the basic theory and maintenance for both diesel and gas engines. Learn how to properly store your equipment, to troubleshoot problems, what you can tackle yourself and when you need to call your mechanic!
Learner Outcomes
Small Gasoline Engines
This module covers up to 4-cylinder industrial equipment engines and motorcycles. Student will need to bring in their own project for this course (ie. lawnmower, weed eater, generator, etc.). Topics include:
- Hand tool usage using Camosun shop tools (safety shoe wear and safety glasses are required by the student)
- Using shop impact tools and cleaning devices (supplied by Camosun)
- Identifying and understanding the 4-stoke cycle engine
- Identifying and understanding the 2-stroke cycle engine
- How to diagnose and correct running issues with your project
- Carburetor overhaul & fuel system maintenance
- Ignition faults (ie. ignition coil, wiring & spark plug)
- Lawn mower maintenance, blade sharpening & balancing
- End-of-season preparation & storage
- Discuss how Hydraulic Drives operate on larger garden equipment
- Basic Electrical theory and making it relevant for the projects
- How to use a Digital Volt Ohmmeter
- Servicing outboard engines (If it is one of the student’s projects)
- Impeller replacement, Leg oil servicing, cooling system diagnosis, and service
Small Diesel Marine Engine
Includes single cylinder up to 6 cylinders small displacement. The class will be adapted to the needs of the participating students, which will be discussed on the first day of the class. Students will use the engines supplied by Camosun College for this section of the course. Topics include:
- Hand tool usage using Camosun shop tools (safety shoe wear and safety glasses are required by the student)
- Using shop impact tools and cleaning devices (supplied by Camosun)
- Identifying and understanding the 4-stoke cycle Diesel engine
- Discussion of the 2 stroke Diesel engine
- How to diagnose compression vs injection running issues.
- Understanding the fuel delivery and injection system
- Glow plug, hot air intake operation
- Diagnosing Heat Exchanger and cooling system faults.
- Diagnosing no start conditions (electrical and fuel faults)
- Starting and Charging system diagnosis and repairs.
- Discussion on fuel injectors and pumps vs electronic fuel systems.
- Basic Electrical theory and making it relevant to the topic we are covering.
- How to use a Digital Volt Ohmmeter
- Zinc replacement and requirements
- Remove a cylinder head off of a running engine and reassemble the engine after cleaning pistons and valves. (4 shop engines are available)
- Removing Broken fasteners.
- Fuel filter replacement and fuel system bleeding
- Discussion on fuel quality
Notes
- "Marine Diesel Engines" by Nigel Calder ($45) and "Small Gas Engine Repair, Fourth Edition" ($31.95) are required reading material for this course.
- Safety glasses and steel-toed boots required for shop
- No engines please for first class
We are especially grateful to live, work, and play on the traditional territories of the Lekwungen (Songhees, Esquimalt), Malahat, Pacheedaht, Scia'new, T'Sou-ke, and WSÁNEĆ (Pauquachin, Tsartlip, Tsawout, Tseycum) peoples. We acknowledge their welcome and graciousness to the students who seek knowledge here.
