Diesel Mechanic apprenticeship

Description of an apprenticeship as a Diesel Mechanic

Table of Contents

Diesel Mechanic apprenticeship

DOT code: 625.281-010

Visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook for a detailed description of this trade. Type the trade name in the search box and hit enter.

Description

Repairs and maintains diesel engines used to power machines, such as buses, ships, trucks, railroad trains, electric generators, and construction machinery, using handtools, precision measuring instruments, and machine tools: Diagnoses trouble, disassembles engines, and examines parts for defects and excessive wear. Reconditions and replaces parts, such as pistons, bearings, gears, valves, and bushings, using engine lathes, boring machines, handtools, and precision measuring instruments. May weld and cut parts, using arc‑welding and flame cutting equipment.

Work process schedule

Task Hours
A. Orientation: learning all parts and accessories of diesel engines; assembling orders for parts; parts requisitioning and acquiring all knowledge about diesel parts to work hand in hand with diesel mechanic training. 500
B. Motor Overhaul: reboring and honing cylinders; install crank shaft, pin bearing, camshaft and bushings; repair oil pump; adjust fuel racks; changing and adjusting main and connecting rod bearings. 2500
C. Fuel System: unit injector repair; American Bosch nozzle; part identification; calibration and testing; repairing and lapping pump injector parts; cleaning and installing fuel line; assembling and disassembling large fuel pump; ordering pump and injector parts; maintain and operate shop. 2500
D. Repair to electrical system: battery repair and service; testing, adjusting and installing voltage regulator; inspect and install wiring; install and adjust lights; install electrical accessories.  
E. Repair to electrical system: battery repair and service; testing, adjusting and installing voltage regulator; inspect and install wiring; install and adjust lights; install electrical accessories. 1250
F. Repair to power transmission: clutches-repair and adjustment; transmission repair; drive shaft and universal joint. 500
G. Repairs to the cooling system: overhaul and install water pump; install hose, thermostat and fan belt; repair radiator. 750
(Every 2,000 hours = one year) total hours: 8000

Related technical instruction

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires 150 hours each year of related technical instruction which must be mastered by the apprentice in order to successfully complete the program. For further information, please call the Division of Apprentice Standards at (617) 626-5409.

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