ASE Entry-Level Inspection, Maintenance & Minor Repair — practice test

DE-A.General

• 1.Research vehicle service information, including fluid type, vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service bulletins.
• 2.Inspect level and condition of fuel, oil, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), and coolant.
• 3.Inspect engine assembly for fuel, oil, coolant, air, and other leaks.
• 4.Check engine operation (starting and running) including: noise, vibration, smoke, etc.
• 5.Use appropriate electronic service tool(s) and procedures to diagnose problems; check, record, and clear diagnostic codes; check and record trip/operational data; reset maintenance monitor (if applicable); interpret digital multimeter (DMM) readings.
• 6.Identify system components, configurations, and types of the following: cylinder head(s), valve train, engine block, engine lubrication, engine cooling, air induction, exhaust, fuel, and engine braking.

DE-B.Cylinder Head and Valve Train

• 1.Inspect electronic wiring harness and brackets for wear, bending, cracks, and looseness.

DE-C.Engine Block

• 1.Inspect crankshaft vibration damper; inspect engine mounts.

DE-D.Lubrication Systems

• 1.Test engine oil pressure and check operation of pressure sensor, gauge, and/or sending unit; test engine oil temperature and check operation of temperature sensor.
• 2.Check engine oil level, condition, and consumption; take engine oil sample.
• 3.Determine proper lubricant; perform oil and filter service.

DE-E.Cooling System

• 1.Check engine coolant type, level, condition, and test coolant for freeze protection and additive package concentration.
• 2.Verify coolant temperature; check operation of temperature and level sensors, gauge, and/or sending unit.
• 3.Inspect and reinstall/replace pulleys, tensioners and drive belts; adjust drive belts and check alignment.
• 4.Recover coolant, flush, and refill with recommended coolant/additive package; bleed cooling system.
• 5.Inspect coolant conditioner/filter assembly for leaks; inspect valves, lines, and fittings; replace as needed.
• 6.Inspect water pump, hoses, and clamps.
• 7.Inspect, and pressure test cooling system(s); pressure test cap, tank(s), and recovery systems; inspect radiator and mountings.
• 8.Inspect thermostatic cooling fan system (hydraulic, pneumatic, and electronic) and fan shroud.
• 9.Identify engine block heater(s).

DE-F.Air Induction and Exhaust Systems

• 1.Inspect turbocharger(s), wastegate(s), and piping systems.
• 2.Check air induction system including: cooler assembly, piping, hoses, clamps, and mountings; replace air filter as needed; reset restriction indicator (if applicable).
• 3.Inspect intake manifold, gaskets, and connections.
• 4.Inspect engine exhaust system, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, and exhaust aftertreatment system for leaks, mounting, proper routing, and damaged or missing components.
• 5.Inspect crankcase ventilation system; service as needed.

DE-G.Fuel System

• 1.Check fuel level and condition.
• 2.Inspect fuel tanks, vents, caps, mounts, valves, screens, crossover system, hoses, lines, and fittings.
• 3.Inspect low pressure fuel system components (fuel pump, pump drives, screens, fuel/water separators/indicators, hoses, lines, filters, heaters, coolers, ECM cooling plates, check valves, pressure regulator valves, restrictive fittings, and mounting hardware).
• 4.Replace fuel filter; prime and bleed fuel system.
• 5.Inspect high pressure fuel system components (fuel pump, pump drives, hoses, injection lines, filters, hold-downs, fittings, seals, and mounting hardware).

DE-H.Engine Brakes

• 1.Inspect engine compression and/or exhaust brake housing, valves, seals, lines, and fittings.

DT-A.General

• 1.Research vehicle service information, including fluid type, vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service bulletins.
• 2.Identify drive train components, transmission type, and configuration.

DT-B.Clutch

• 1.Inspect and adjust clutch, clutch brake, linkage, cables, levers, brackets, bushings, pivots, springs, and clutch safety switch (includes push-type and pull-type); check pedal height and travel; determine needed action.
• 2.Inspect clutch master cylinder fluid level; check clutch master cylinder, slave cylinder, lines, and hoses for leaks and damage; determine needed action.

DT-C.Transmission

• 1.Inspect transmission shifter and linkage; inspect transmission mounts, insulators, and mounting bolts.
• 2.Inspect transmission for leakage; determine needed action.
• 3.Replace transmission cover plates, gaskets, seals, and cap bolts; inspect seal surfaces and vents; determine needed action.
• 4.Check transmission fluid level and condition; determine needed action.
• 5.Inspect transmission breather; inspect transmission oil filters, coolers, and related components; determine needed action.
• 6.Inspect speedometer components.
• 7.Inspect and test function of REVERSE light, neutral start, and warning device circuits.

DT-D.Driveshaft and Universal Joints

• 1.Inspect, service, and/or replace driveshafts, slip joints, yokes, drive flanges, support bearings, universal joints, boots, seals, and retaining/mounting hardware; check phasing of all shafts.

DT-E.Drive Axles

• 1.Check for fluid leaks; inspect drive axle housing assembly, cover plates, gaskets, seals, vent/breather, and magnetic plugs.
• 2.Check drive axle fluid level and condition; check drive axle filter; determine needed action.
• 3.Inspect air-operated power divider (inter-axle differential) assembly including: diaphragms, seals, springs, yokes, pins, lines, hoses, fittings, and controls.
• 4.Inspect drive axle shafts; determine needed action.
• 5.Remove and replace wheel assembly; check rear wheel seal and axle flange for leaks; determine needed action.

TB-A.General

• 1.Research vehicle service information, including fluid type, vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service bulletins.
• 2.Identify brake system components and configurations (including air and hydraulic systems, parking brake, power assist, and vehicle dynamic brake systems).
• 3.Identify brake performance problems caused by the mechanical/foundation brake system (air and hydraulic).

TB-B.Air Brakes: Air Supply and Service Systems

• 1.Inspect air supply system components such as compressor, governor, air drier, tanks, and lines; inspect service system components such as lines, fittings, mountings, and valves (hand brake/trailer control, brake relay, quick release, tractor protection, emergency/spring brake control/modulator, pressure relief/safety).
• 2.Verify proper gauge operation and readings; verify low pressure warning alarm operation; perform air supply system tests such as pressure build-up, governor settings, and leakage; drain air tanks and check for contamination.

TB-C.Air Brakes: Mechanical/Foundation Brake System

• 1.Inspect service brake chambers, diaphragms, clamps, springs, pushrods, clevises, and mounting brackets; determine needed action.
• 2.Identify slack adjuster type; inspect slack adjusters; determine needed action.
• 3.Check camshafts (S-cams), tubes, rollers, bushings, seals, spacers, retainers, brake spiders, shields, anchor pins, and springs; determine needed action.
• 4.Inspect rotor and mounting surface; measure rotor thickness, thickness variation, and lateral runout; determine needed action.
• 5.Inspect, clean, and adjust air disc brake caliper assemblies; inspect and measure disc brake pads; inspect mounting hardware; perform needed action.
• 6.Remove brake drum; clean and inspect brake drum and mounting surface; measure brake drum diameter; measure brake lining thickness; inspect brake lining condition; determine needed action.

TB-D.Air brakes: Parking Brake System

• 1.Inspect and check parking (spring) brake chamber for leaks; determine needed action.
• 2.Inspect and test parking (spring) brake check valves, lines, hoses, and fittings; determine needed action.
• 3.Inspect and test parking (spring) brake application and release valve; determine needed action.
• 4.Manually release (cage) and reset (uncage) parking (spring) brakes.

TB-E.Hydraulic Brakes: Hydraulic System

• 1.Check master cylinder fluid level and condition; determine proper fluid type for application.
• 2.Inspect hydraulic brake system components for leaks and damage.
• 3.Check hydraulic brake system operation including pedal travel, pedal effort, and pedal feel.

TB-F.Hydraulic Brakes: Mechanical/Foundation Brake System

• 1.Inspect rotor and mounting surface; measure rotor thickness, thickness variation, and lateral runout; determine needed action.
• 2.Inspect and clean disc brake caliper assemblies; inspect and measure disc brake pads; inspect mounting hardware; determine needed action.
• 3.Remove brake drum; clean and inspect brake drum and mounting surface; measure brake drum diameter; measure brake lining thickness; inspect brake lining condition; inspect wheel cylinders; determine needed action.

TB-G.Hydraulic Brakes: Parking Brake System

• 1.Check parking brake operation; inspect parking brake application and holding devices.

TB-H.Power Assist Systems

• 1.Check brake assist/booster system (vacuum or hydraulic) hoses and control valves; check fluid level and condition (if applicable).
• 2.Check operation of emergency (back-up/reserve) brake assist system.

TB-I.Vehicle Dynamic Brake Systems (Air and Hydraulic): Antilock Brake System (ABS), Automatic

• 1.Observe antilock brake system (ABS) warning light operation including trailer and dash mounted trailer ABS warning light.
• 2.Observe automatic traction control (ATC) and electronic stability control (ESC) warning light operation.

TB-J.Wheel Bearings

• 1.Clean, inspect, lubricate, and/or replace wheel bearings and races/cups; replace seals and wear rings; inspect spindle/tube; inspect and replace retaining hardware; adjust wheel bearings; check hub assembly fluid level and condition; verify end play with dial indicator method.
• 2.Identify, inspect, and/or replace unitized/preset hub bearing assemblies.

TS-A.General

• 1.Research vehicle service information, including fluid type, vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service bulletins.
• 2.Disable and enable supplemental restraint system (SRS); verify indicator lamp operation.
• 3.Identify suspension and steering system components and configurations.

TS-B.Steering Column

• 1.Check steering wheel for free play, binding, and proper centering; inspect and service steering shaft U-joint(s), slip joint(s), bearings, bushings, and seals; phase steering shaft.
• 2.Check operation of tilt and telescoping steering column.
• 3.Check cab mounting.

TS-C.Steering Pump and Gear Units

• 1.Check power steering pump and gear operation, mountings, lines, and hoses; check fluid level and condition; service filter; inspect system for leaks.
• 2.Flush and refill power steering system; purge air from system.

TS-D.Steering Linkage

• 1.Inspect tie rod ends, ball joints, kingpins, pitman arms, idler arms, and other steering linkage components; lubricate as needed.

TS-E.Suspension Systems

• 1.Inspect shock absorbers, bushings, brackets, and mounts; determine needed action.
• 2.Inspect leaf springs, center bolts, clips, pins, bushings, shackles, U-bolts, insulators, brackets, and mounts; determine needed action.
• 3.Inspect axle and axle aligning devices such as: radius rods, track bars, stabilizer bars, and torque arms; inspect related bushings, mounts, and shims.
• 4.Inspect tandem suspension equalizer components.
• 5.Inspect and test air suspension pressure regulator and height control valves, lines, hoses, dump valves, and fittings; check and record ride height.
• 6.Inspect air springs, mounting plates, springs, suspension arms, and bushings.

TS-F.Wheel Alignment

• 1.Demonstrate understanding of alignment angles.

TS-G.Wheels and Tires

• 1.Inspect tire condition; identify tire wear patterns; measure tread depth; verify tire matching (diameter and tread); inspect valve stem and cap; set tire pressure.
• 2.Identify wheel/tire vibration, shimmy, pounding, and hop (tramp) problems.
• 3.Check wheel mounting hardware; check wheel condition; remove and install wheel/tire assemblies (steering and drive axle); torque fasteners to manufacturer’s specification using torque wrench.

TS-H.Frame and Coupling Devices

• 1.Inspect, service, and/or adjust fifth wheel, pivot pins, bushings, locking mechanisms, mounting hardware, air lines, and fittings.
• 2.Inspect frame and frame members for cracks, breaks, corrosion, distortion, elongated holes, looseness, and damage.
• 3.Inspect frame hangers, brackets, and cross members.
• 4.Check pintle hook and mounting (if applicable).

TE-A.General

• 1.Research vehicle service information, including vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service bulletins.
• 2.Demonstrate knowledge of electrical/electronic series, parallel, and series-parallel circuits using principles of electricity (Ohm’s Law).
• 3.Demonstrate proper use of test equipment when measuring source voltage, voltage drop (including grounds), current flow, continuity, and resistance.
• 4.Demonstrate knowledge of the causes and effects of shorts, grounds, opens, and resistance problems in electrical/electronic circuits.
• 5.Use wiring diagrams to trace electrical/electronic circuits.
• 6.Measure parasitic (key-off) battery drain.
• 7.Demonstrate knowledge of the function, operation, and testing of fusible links, circuit breakers, relays, solenoids, diodes, and fuses.
• 8.Inspect, repair (including solder repair), and/or replace connectors, seals, terminal ends, and wiring; verify proper routing and securement.
• 9.Use appropriate electronic service tool(s) and procedures to diagnose problems; check, record, and clear diagnostic codes; interpret digital multimeter (DMM) readings.
• 10.Check for malfunctions caused by faults in the data bus communications network.
• 11.Identify electrical/electronic system components and configuration.

TE-B.Battery System

• 1.Identify battery type and system configuration.
• 2.Confirm proper battery capacity for application; perform battery state-of-charge test; perform battery capacity test, determine needed action.
• 3.Inspect battery, battery cables, connectors, battery boxes, mounts, and hold-downs; determine needed action.
• 4.Charge battery using appropriate method for battery type.
• 5.Jump-start vehicle using a booster battery and jumper cables or using an appropriate auxiliary power supply.
• 6.Identify low voltage disconnect (LVD) systems.

TE-C.Starting System

• 1.Demonstrate understanding of starter system operation.
• 2.Perform starter circuit cranking voltage and voltage drop tests.
• 3.Inspect starter control circuit switches, relays, connectors, terminals, wires, and harnesses (including over-crank protection).

TE-D.Charging System

• 1.Identify and understand operation of the generator (alternator).
• 2.Check instrument panel mounted voltmeters and/or indicator lamps.
• 3.Inspect generator (alternator) drive belt condition; check pulleys and tensioners for wear; check fans and mounting brackets; verify proper belt alignment.
• 4.Inspect cables, wires, and connectors in the charging circuit.
• 5.Perform charging system voltage and amperage output tests; perform AC ripple test.

TE-E.Lighting Systems

• 1.Inspect for brighter-than-normal, intermittent, dim, or no-light operation; determine needed action.
• 2.Test, replace, and aim headlights.
• 3.Inspect cables, wires, and connectors in the lighting systems.
• 4.Inspect tractor-to-trailer multi-wire connectors, cables, and holders.

TE-F.Instrument Cluster and Driver Information Systems

• 1.Check gauge and warning indicator operation.
• 2.Identify the sensor/sending units, gauges, switches, relays, bulbs/LEDs, wires, terminals, connectors, sockets, printed circuits, and control components/modules of the instrument cluster, driver information system, and warning systems.

CC-A.General

• 1.Research vehicle service information, including refrigerant/oil type, vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service bulletins.
• 2.Identify heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) components and configuration.
• 3.Use appropriate electronic service tool(s) and procedures to diagnose problems; check, record, and clear diagnostic codes; interpret digital multimeter (DMM) readings.

CC-B.Refrigeration System Components

• 1.Inspect A/C compressor drive belts, pulleys, and tensioners; verify proper belt alignment.
• 2.Check A/C system operation including system pressures; visually inspect A/C components for signs of leaks; check A/C monitoring system (if applicable).
• 3.Inspect A/C condenser for airflow restrictions; determine needed action.

CC-C.Heating, Ventilation, and Engine Cooling Systems

• 1.Inspect engine cooling system and heater system hoses and pipes; determine needed action.
• 2.Inspect HVAC system-heater ducts, doors, hoses, cabin filters, and outlets; determine needed action.
• 3.Identify the source of A/C system odors.

CC-D.Operating Systems and Related Controls

• 1.Verify blower motor operation; confirm proper air distribution; confirm proper temperature control; determine needed action.

TC-A.General

• 1.Research vehicle service information including, vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service bulletins.
• 2.Use appropriate electronic service tool(s) and procedures to diagnose problems; check, record, and clear diagnostic codes; check and record trip/operational data; reset maintenance monitor (if applicable); interpret digital multimeter (DMM) readings.

TC-B.Instruments and Controls

• 1.Inspect mechanical key condition; check operation of ignition switch; check operation of indicator lights, warning lights and/or alarms; check instruments; record oil pressure and system voltage; check operation of electronic power take-off (PTO) and engine idle speed controls (if applicable).
• 2.Check operation of all accessories.
• 3.Understand operation of auxiliary power unit (APU)/electric power unit (EPU).

TC-C.Safety Equipment

• 1.Check operation of horns (electric and air); check warning device operation (reverse, air pressure, etc.); check condition of spare fuses, safety triangles, fire extinguisher, and all required decals; inspect seat belts and sleeper restraints; inspect condition of wiper blades and arms.

TC-D.Hardware

• 1.Check operation of wipers and washer; inspect windshield glass for cracks or discoloration; check sun visor; check seat condition, operation, and mounting; check door glass and window operation; verify operation of door and cab locks; inspect steps and grab handles; inspect mirrors, mountings, brackets, and glass.
• 2.Record all physical damage.
• 3.Lubricate all cab grease fittings; inspect and lubricate door and hood hinges, latches, strikers, lock cylinders, safety latches, linkages, and cables.
• 4.Inspect cab mountings, hinges, latches, linkages, and ride height.
• 5.Inspect quarter fender, mud flaps, and brackets.