fixing a priming pump

This week I rebuilt the filter and priming pump system on the diesel drum at school.  The old one was a one piece system and the pump wore out and was leaking everywhere so we replaced it with this two piece one.  We had to refurbish the mount to fit the new filter and figure out a couple fittings that needed to be added to the new system.  I also learned how to reset the gauges on an air filter.

60hours

335 total

splicing cable

This week I was shown how to splice cable.  I know that what the picture shows isn't the best way to attach two cables but it would work in a pinch.  We also got the frame cut on the semi and got part of the new exaust pipe on.  We are waiting on parts to do the rest. I have also serviced some implements on my own time and did more research on removing that dozer transmission.

60 hours 

275 total

taking apart a semi 3

This week we pulled the back axle off the semi and prepared to set it on is stands.  We also prepared to cut the frame so we can make the motor mobile.  We also built the legs for the motor stand and are just waiting on the casters to show up.  I learned that no matter how long the an extension is it will apply the same amount of torque to the fastener.

25hours

215 total

A variety of things accomplished

This week we finally got the cummins running. We wired in the key switch so we can use the key to start it.  We also wired in the throttle peddle off of another truck in the shop so there is a working throttle on it.  We used an electronic pressure gauge on a quick coupler that was on the block to make sure that the motor was building oil pressure and it built up a steady 45 psi.  I also figured out why the engine on a tow behind brush hog would not start.  I started by testing the battery which was shot.  I replaced that and there was still no power going to the starter.  So i took my multimeter and found that there was power going to and from the key switch but not through the starter solenoid.  I tested it and found that there was way too much resistance in it replaced it and the motor fired right up. Finally we had a bearing go out on one of the hubs on our manure spreader on the farm.  The inner bearing had totally been destroyed and the seal didn't exist anymore.  The inside of the hub had also been badly worn by this along with the spindle so it all needs to be replaced. I am hoping to get parts for this soon.

60 hours

190 hours total

taking apart a semi part 2

This week we continued to disassemble the semi.  We successfully pulled the drop axle and got it all set and in place to weld onto stands.  We also pulled all the extra hoses and wires off of the motor and plan to try to get it running this week.  I also learned how to use a tire hammer to dismount tires from the wheels.  Once the hammer was used to break the beads and remove the snap ring we took the tires in and set them on the bare frame of the truck and used it as a stand for beating the rims out of the tires. If there is anything good to say about this job it is that it is a good workout. I also have been doing research on a tranny problem on a John Deere 455G dozer that a local farm wants me to work on for them.
65 hours
130 total

Taking apart a semi

I spent this week working with a couple of classmates to dismantle and International truck.  We tore it all the way down to the frame, axles, and motor.  I also learned how to use an inductor to heat up an individual nut.  It is way easier to use but not quite as fast as a torch.

65 hours
65 total

clutch adjustment

This week I learned how to adjust a clutch on a big rig.  I find this extremely handy to know how to do because any thing that has a manual transmission could have a manual adjusting clutch.  I also learned how to use a mag based drill and drilled a hole in a section of truck frame that was provided.
40hrs this week
340 hrs total