Real World Training for a Hands-On Career.
Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program in South Plainfield
Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program in South Plainfield
Excited about a career working on the powerhouse machines that keep America moving? The Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program at Lincoln Tech’s South Plainfield campus trains you to service and maintain diesel engines, drivetrains, and electronic systems found in commercial trucks and heavy vehicles. This hands-on training program prepares you to start a career with benefits in the diesel industry, where skilled technicians can work across transportation, logistics, and heavy equipment sectors.
Drive your career forward with the Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program at our South Plainfield, New Jersey campus today.
Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program Delivery
Day, Afternoon, and Evening programs are available. Training is conducted on-campus through hands-on instruction using diesel engines, tractor-trailers, and diagnostic tools, as well as coursework delivered online. Interactive simulations and animations are also used to enhance understanding and reinforce complex systems.
Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program Length
- Total Semester Credit Hours: 55.0
- Instructional Hours: 1320
- Completion Time: Approximately 57 weeks
Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program Classes and Curriculum
Developed in collaboration with industry professionals, the Lincoln Tech academic approach ensures that our programs align with current employer requirements and technological advancements. You train on industry-standard diesel equipment and systems, including air brakes, fuel injection, hydraulics, suspension, electrical diagnostics, and preventative maintenance. And you gain invaluable skills in professionalism, customer service, and career success.
Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program Learning Objectives
- Diagnose, repair, and maintain diesel engines and related systems.
- Service brakes, drivetrains, suspension, steering, and electrical components.
- Service fuel systems brands including Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Caterpillar and others.
- Adjust the components of a truck steering system including the toe-in, camber, and caster.
- Use computerized diagnostic tools and equipment.
- Perform preventive maintenance and safety inspections.
- Interpret service manuals and technical schematics.
- Understand diesel fuel systems and emissions control.
- Communicate effectively with coworkers and clients about service needs.
- Apply OSHA safety regulations and diesel industry best practices.
- Prepare for ASE certification testing.
Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program Career Outcomes
As a graduate of the Diesel and Truck Technology Certificate Program in South Plainfield, you may find entry-level employment opportunities with:
- Trucking companies and fleet maintenance services
- Diesel engine repair shops
- Equipment leasing companies
- Municipal and government vehicle maintenance divisions
- Heavy equipment dealerships
- Bus and other transportation companies
- Marine equipment companies
- Construction firms
Diesel and Truck Service Technology Certificate Program Career Outcomes
Lincoln Tech’s South Plainfield campus gives you hands-on access to the types of equipment and technology used in today’s diesel industry. You train under instructors with real-world experience and learn in a shop environment designed to simulate a professional repair facility.
Diesel and Truck Training in NJ
Students and graduates of the Diesel and Truck Technology Certificate Program may qualify to work at a variety of area businesses including organizations1 such as:
Diesel and Truck Service Technology — South Plainfield
MHTX100 — Certificate Program
CIP Code: 47.0613
SOC Code: 49-3031
Day, Afternoon, Evening Programs
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 55.0 |
|---|---|
| Instructional Hours | 1320 |
| Weeks to Complete — Day | Approximately 57 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
| Weeks to Complete — Afternoon | Approximately 57 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
| Weeks to Complete — Evening | Approximately 57 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
Program Objective
This program is designed to prepare students for entry into the diesel and truck career field. Students enrolled in this program will learn theory, functions, diagnostics, and repair of diesel engines and natural gas fuel systems. Using industry standard tools and equipment, students will diagnose and repair electrical, mechanical, and fuel delivery systems on diesel engines, trucks, and trailers. Upon successful completion of the program, the graduate should possess knowledge and versatility in the diesel and truck repair field to qualify for entry-level positions as a mechanic, technician, mechanic’s helper, or a fleet service technician in truck dealerships, fleet maintenance departments, private repair enterprises, or franchised truck repair organizations.
In addition to the technical training, a critical aspect of a Lincoln education is developing the professional skills that are required by our employers. Students will need to demonstrate skill proficiency through a series of professional development activities and seminars which are integrated into each course. The modules include:
- Student Success
- Financial Literacy
- Professional Development
- Career Success
Foundation Courses
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
The overall goal of this course is to facilitate a smooth transition to school by engaging the student in curriculum focusing on academics, career, and life skills. Students will make connections with key personnel within the school that will assist with their questions and provide guidance throughout their education.
The student will be introduced to medium and heavy duty truck systems, industry certifications, and job opportunities. Students will learn essential skills for the vehicle technician including safety and equipment fundamentals.
The student will also learn the basic operation of a hydraulic system. This includes giving a description of the operation and the diagnostic procedures for components in a hydraulic system. Students will study Pascal’s Law and the Bernoulli’s Principle of Hydraulics as they pertain to the repair industry. Lastly, the student will learn how to properly repair the basic hydraulic system in a hydraulic shop.
The course content will be balanced by an emphasis on skills that will enable the student to be successful in school and in life. These skills will include time management, financial management, goal setting, learning strategies, career planning, and critical thinking strategies.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
None. |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the student with practical theory in basic and solid state circuitry, including body electrical systems, operation and service of automotive storage batteries, automobile charging systems, starting systems, and lighting systems. Students will evaluate components using both conventional and electronic diagnostic equipment.
Students will learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems.
Students will learn how to diagnose basic electrical, charging, starting, and lighting circuits through the use of diagnostic equipment to include test lights, multimeters, and continuity testers. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to service medium and heavy duty diesel engines. Instruction on the operating principles, construction, design variations, and applications of the diesel engines are emphasized.
The student will learn how to perform a complete disassembly and assembly of the instructions in the engine’s manufacturers service manual. They will also learn the proper methods of inspecting, identifying and naming the components to determine serviceability of the components prior to making a repair. This will include learning how to make all the necessary precision measurements required for diagnosing component failure prior to servicing and repair of the engine.
The student will learn how to service, repair and diagnose the cooling and lubricating system of diesel engines. The student will learn the different types of coolants as well as additives and how to test for Supplemental Coolant Additives (SCA) to determine if additions to or replacement is needed. Students will learn how to perform coolant tests with different testing equipment.
Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
Core Courses
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
For Automotive Service Technology, Automotive Service Technology With Volkswagen, and Automotive Service Management Technology programs: AUX100, AUX103 For Diesel and Truck Service Technology, Diesel and Truck Service Management Technology and Heavy Equipment Service Technology programs: AUX103, MHT100 |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the student with theory and application of automobile air conditioning and heating systems. Students will also be presented with the operation of various automobile accessories to include: power windows, door locks, and seats, and air bag operation and service.
Students will learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems.
Students will learn how to diagnose abnormal operation of air conditioning and heating systems, remove and replace air conditioning and heating system components, and evacuate and recharge automobile air conditioning systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
MHT100, AUX103, MHT108 |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to service fuel systems found on diesel powered truck tractors. The student will learn how to perform maintenance, service and repair on diesel fuel systems such as the Common Rail System, Detroit Diesel Electronic Controls (DDEC), different Cummins Systems, and International HEUI systems. The student will learn how to perform tune-ups on diesel engines by following manufacturer’s service procedures and specifications.
The student will learn how to identify the different exhaust compounds from a diesel engine and define the ones that are classified as pollutants. The student will learn about the various manufacturers’ exhaust aftertreatment systems. The student will learn how to perform an opacity smoke test and correlate the test results to engine performance and possible component failure.
Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
MHT100 |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to service the drive trains found on diesel powered truck tractors. The student will learn how to identify the components of a heavy duty clutch system. Students will learn how to diagnose a clutch system for wear and damage and give the possible causes of specific clutch defects. The student will learn how to remove and replace a heavy duty truck clutch system.
The student will learn how to identify and describe the various gear designs and shift mechanisms used in heavy duty trucks. The student will also learn how to calculate both the gear pitch and gear ratios in a heavy duty drive line. The student will learn how to disassemble and reassemble a heavy duty transmission, differential and power divider as well as learning how to service the heavy duty drive line components in maintaining the correct lubricant and the level of lubricant in the system. The student will also learn how to perform basic diagnostic procedures on an automated standard transmission.
Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
MHT100 |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to service heavy duty truck steering and suspension systems. The student will learn how to identify, diagnosis, service, repair, and adjust as necessary; the components of a heavy duty truck steering system to include toe-in, camber, caster, axle inclination, turning radius and axle alignment and how they affect tire wear, directional stability and handling. The student will learn how to balance truck tires and wheels and perform a wheel alignment to include the rear axle(s) by using computerized wheel alignment equipment
The student will learn how to service the major tire and wheel configurations used on heavy duty trucks. Students will learn how to perform bearing and seal service on both grease lubricated and oil lubricated front and rear hubs. The student will learn how to perform the basic checks for frame alignment and geometry and how the frame and chassis components are repaired. The student will learn how to service, repair and replace if necessary, the components on the four types of suspension systems.
Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
MHT100 |
Course Description
This course has been designed to provide comprehensive information on air and hydraulic brake systems as they apply to medium heavy duty transport vehicles. The student will learn to identify, locate, and diagnose the components of the truck brake systems, as it applies to hydraulic, air over hydraulic, or air brake systems. The student will learn to perform maintenance, service, and repair of brake system components on medium and heavy duty truck.
The student will learn to identify, locate, diagnose, service, and repair as necessary, components of ABS, EBS systems on a heavy duty truck and trailer. The student will learn to use LED lights and blink codes to assist them in diagnosing problems with the ABS, EBS systems. The student will learn how to perform maintenance, service, repair, and overhaul of disc and drum brakes as it applies to hydraulic, air over hydraulic, and air brake systems found on medium and heavy duty trucks.
Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
MHT100, AUX103 |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the student with the necessary skills and knowledge required to identify, service, and repair the different types of electrical and electronic circuits found on late model medium and heavy duty trucks. Operation, diagnosis, and service of the trucks computer systems will be emphasized.
The student will learn to apply Ohm’s law to series, parallel and series-parallel circuits and how data is transmitted from the various engine, body, and electronic system sensors to onboard computers that control fuel management, driveability performance, and driver comfort systems.
The student will learn how to diagnose and service electrical and electronic systems using wiring diagrams, manufacturer service manuals, and specialized diagnostic equipment. The student will learn how to properly identify, disassemble, repair as necessary, and assemble connectors and wiring on medium and heavy duty trucks.
Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
For Automotive Service Technology, Automotive Service Technology With Volkswagen, and Automotive Service Management Technology programs: AUX100, AUX103, AUX208 For Diesel and Truck Service Technology, Diesel and Truck Service Management Technology and Heavy Equipment Service Technology programs: MHT100, AUX103, AUX208 |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the students with exposure to an actual shop environment, procedures, and protocol by applying prominent skills obtained in previous courses. This course will also provide the student with an orientation and introduction to the management and business component of the automotive industry. The management and procedures associated with automotive related businesses are emphasized including employee/employer expectations, the service write-up process, business organizational structure, career opportunities, customer relations, personnel management, facilities, business records, insurance, and safety. Knowledge relating to management practices within an automotive business will help the student adapt and acclimate to the working environment.
Students will learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems.
Students will learn how to prepare an employment resume and application. Students will learn how to complete various forms used in automotive businesses. Students will learn how to properly interview for employment. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 60 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 60 |
| Internship Hours | 0 |
| Total Hours | 120 |
| Total Credits | 5.0 |
| Prerequisites |
MHT100, AUX103, MHT106, MHT107 |
Course Description
This course is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform service, maintenance, and PM Inspection on medium and heavy-duty trucks and trailers. The student will learn the proper procedures that must be taken to perform a PM Inspection including the completion of PM Inspection forms. The student will learn how a well-planned preventive maintenance program can reduce repair cost and increase the life of the truck, trailer, and other associated equipment.
The student will learn how to properly inspect, lubricate, and repair or replace as necessary; components of the truck drive line as well as checking for proper driveline angles and balance. The student will learn how to perform the proper service, maintenance, repairs and inspection procedures on the trailers lighting system, wheels, tires, brakes and other safety related components as required by law. The student will learn how to disassemble, inspect, service, and reassemble, the fifth wheel. Students will learn how to properly perform the necessary service and maintenance procedures related to pintle hooks and drawbars.
The student will learn how to take the necessary safety precautions as they pertain to cutting, welding and hydraulics. They will learn how to weld with a MIG welder. The student will also learn how to use an oxyacetylene combination torch to cut metal.
Lastly, Students will be provided with an orientation and introduction to the management and business component of the medium/heavy duty truck industry. The management and procedures associated with diesel service related businesses are emphasized including employee/employer expectations, the service write-up process, business organizational structure, career opportunities, customer relations, personnel management, facilities, business records, insurance, and safety. Students will also learn how to complete repair orders containing customer and vehicle information and corrective action. Students will learn how to research vehicle service information with computer and internet based electronic retrieval systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
Notes:
Course numbers and sequences are listed here for reference only. The actual delivery sequence of courses contained in this program may vary depending on individual campus scheduling. Maximum Time Frame: 82.5 semester credits.
Mode of Delivery: Residential, Blended Learning or Online are the methods we may use to deliver content in each course. The Residential courses are offered on ground at the campus. Blended courses are offered by delivering a fraction of the course in an online format as well as traditional face to face method. Online courses are delivered 100% online. The Blended delivery and online delivery plan will implement distance education activities into each course in the program of study. The use of simulations, case studies, assessments and multimedia will be used to enhance the students understanding of the learning objectives outlined in the course syllabus.
1 These companies have hired one or more 2021 – 2024 Lincoln graduates to work in their field of study.
The listing of credits is not meant to imply that credits can be transferred into college or other private career school programs. Transfer credits are at the sole discretion of the receiving school.
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