PWRS 1520 4-CYCLE Engine Fundamentals

This is a basic course in the theory of engine operations, diagnosis of problems, minor repairs, and overhaul procedures relating to 4-cycle powersports engines. The focus of this course is the application of hands-on skills relating to diagnosis and repair of single and multi-cylinder 4-cycle engines, crankshaft repair on single cylinder engines, and top end repair procedures on single and multi-cylinder engines. (1 lect., 4 lab)

Credits

3 credits

Major Topics

  • Safety in the powersports lab.
  • Theory of operation of a 4-cycle engine.
  • Engine configuration and identification.
  • Engine diagnostics.
  • Precision tools used in powersports engine repair.
  • In-frame engine repairs
  • Engine cleaning
  • Cylinder head removal and repair.
  • Cylinder removal and repair. In-frame engine disassembly prior to engine removal.
  • Engine removal concerns and precautions.
  • Case splitting
  • Pressed crank (single cylinder) rebuilding and bearing fitment.
  • Forged crank bottom end evaluation and bearing fitment.
  • Pressed crank bottom end reassembly.
  • Forged crank bottom end reassembly.
  • Top end reassembly and cam timing procedures.
  • Break in and initial service strategies.

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Pass the CWC Automotive safety test with a score of 70% or better.

2. Identify the location of MSDS sheets and explain their function in the shop.

3. Purchase and always wear safety glasses.

4. Answer questions about blood borne pathogens and the steps needed to protect oneself from infection.

5. Answer questions about the danger of contact with cleaning solvents and how to protect oneself from exposure.

6. Identify the four strokes used in a 4-cycle engine.

7. Identify the various valve configurations and cylinder configurations used by 4-cycle powersports engines.

8. Use the terminology of 4-cycle powersports engines correctly and accurately.

9. Interpret the engine designators used by the various manufacturers to describe their engines.

10. Identify problems relating to the fuel system.

11. Identify problems relating to the ignition system.

12. Identify problems relating to the compression system.

13. Differentiate between top end and bottom end problems.

14. Differentiate between problems that can be repaired in-frame and problems that require engine removal.

15. Differentiate between problems that require part replacement and problems that require adjustments or both.

16. Identify in frame repairs by the use of a service manual.

17. Write a complete work order.

18. Clean a powersports vehicle completely before disassembly.

19. Remove and replace all components of an engine with out removing the engine from the frame.

20. Use appropriate special and precision tools to diagnose and repair in frame related components such as; cylinder head and valves, cylinder and piston and external seals.

21. Remove stubborn gaskets.

22. Maintain bottom end cleanliness.

23. Build a realistic estimate of the cost of an in frame repair.

24. Use case splitting tools to remove a crankshaft from a powersports engine case.

25. Disassemble, reassemble, and true a 4-cycle single cylinder crankshaft.

26. Use special and precision tools needed to diagnose and repair 4-cycle engines.

27. Use a service manual to determine proper repair procedures.

28. Prepare a set of cases for reassembly.

29. Reassemble a crank into a case using appropriate tools.

30. Install an engine or partial engine into a frame.

31. Reassemble a powersports engine using appropriate special tools and techniques.

32. Answer questions about break in and initial service.

33. Use appropriate lubes for the initial service and break in

34. Write a work order with an appropriate break in warning on it.

Other Information

Any information placed here must be adhered to by all instructors:

Required software: None Recommended text book: Contact instructor for current recommended text. Students are required to furnish the following auto safety equipment and basic hand tools: Provide safety glasses and protective coveralls Provide their own basic tools which include the following: flat and Phillips screwdrivers, pliers, standard and metric sockets, sockets drivers and extensions, standard and metric wrenches, punches, hammers, gasket scraper, other basic tools as needed. CWC will supply the lifts and special tools.