NSSCO Motor Mechanics 6189 study plan

Draw and label the four strokes of a four-stroke SI engine from memory, naming valve positions and piston direction at each stage

Compare two-stroke and four-stroke operation by listing at least five differences in gas flow, lubrication and power strokes per revolution

Identify and state the function of the major engine components (cylinder block, head, piston, rings, gudgeon pin, connecting rod, crankshaft, flywheel, camshaft) in a written table

Explain valve timing terms (TDC, BDC, valve overlap, firing order) using your own diagrams

Describe the correct sequence for stripping, inspecting and reassembling an engine, including torque and marking practices

Explain the purpose and operation of the lubrication system, tracing oil flow from sump to bearings and naming the pump, filter and relief valve

Describe the cooling system layout and explain the role of thermostat, water pump, radiator and coolant mixture

Compare carburettor and fuel injection principles at a basic level, naming the main circuits and components

Diagnose common lubrication and cooling faults (low oil pressure, overheating, coolant loss) by matching symptoms to causes in a fault table

Explain battery construction, lead-acid chemistry, capacity ratings and safe charging and jump-starting procedure

Describe the charging circuit, naming alternator components and explaining how output is regulated

Trace the starter circuit from battery through ignition switch, relay and solenoid to motor, and explain pre-engagement and inertia starter operation

Explain clutch operation, naming pressure plate, friction disc, release bearing and linkage, and describe slip and drag symptoms

Describe manual gearbox layout, synchromesh action and the power flow through each gear ratio

Explain final drive and differential function, including why a differential is needed on turns

Select and use the correct measuring instrument (vernier caliper, micrometer, feeler gauge, dial gauge) for a stated task and read a sample measurement accurately

Apply workshop safety rules to five given scenarios, identifying hazards and the correct control measure

Explain fire classes and select the correct extinguisher for fuel, electrical and general fires

Describe safe handling and disposal of used oil, coolant, batteries and solvents under environmental good practice

Demonstrate correct use, care and storage of hand tools including spanners, torque wrench, hacksaw and files, and identify worn-tool rejection criteria

Describe steering system types (rack and pinion, recirculating ball) and explain steering geometry terms: castor, camber, toe-in, kingpin inclination

Explain suspension types (MacPherson strut, double wishbone, leaf spring) and the role of springs, dampers and anti-roll bars

Identify tyre markings and explain tread depth, tyre pressure and wheel balance effects on handling

Describe hydraulic braking system layout, bleeding procedure and the function of master cylinder, wheel cylinder, servo and proportioning valve

Solve workshop calculations for engine capacity, compression ratio, gear ratio, road speed and piston displacement, showing formula and working

Produce a simple technical drawing of a component (e.g. a shaft or bracket) using correct orthographic projection, dimensioning and line types

Describe routine service schedule items: oil and filter change, fluid checks, belt inspection, brake and tyre checks, and record them on a job card

Explain chassis and body construction terms (monocoque, ladder frame, subframe) and basic body panel alignment checks

Complete a timed mock paper across all domains under exam conditions and record your score per domain

Re-teach your three weakest domains by rewriting key explanations from memory without notes

Build a one-page formula and terminology sheet covering all eleven domains

Review every mock question answered incorrectly and write the correct reasoning for each