This unit applies to maintenance and repair/replacement activities associated with suspension systems of all types of wheeled and/or tracked plant/vehicles.

Band: A

Unit Weight: 4

Path 1

MEM09002B

Interpret technical drawing

MEM12023A

Perform engineering measurements

MEM18001C

Use hand tools

MEM18002B

Use power tools/hand held operations

MEM18055B

Dismantle, replace and assemble engineering components

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Assess suspension systems

1.1. Steering geometry, alignment and suspension systems operation and terminology are understood.

1.2. Components are assessed for security, wear and faults and corrective action is determined.

1.3. Spring arrangements, control arms/links, dampening and control devices are tested for correct operation.

1.4. Axle alignment/tracking is assessed and variance from specification is determined.

1.5. Auto/manual levelling devices performance is tested.

2. Maintain suspension systems

2.1. Axles are aligned to specification.

2.2. Ride height is adjusted to specification.

2.3. Suspension system is re-gassed to specification.

2.4. Suspension components are safely removed and replaced according to standard procedures.

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

reading, interpreting and following information on written job instructions, specifications, standard operating procedures, charts, lists, drawings and other applicable reference documents

planning and sequencing operations

checking task-related information

checking the suspension components for wear, faults and security

testing spring arrangements, control arms/links and dampening devices for correct operation

checking axle alignment/tracking for conformance to specification

identifying variances of axle alignment from specification

testing automatic/manual levelling devices for correct operation

aligning axles to specification

adjusting the ride height to specification

re-gassing the suspension system to specification

removing and replacing suspension components

undertaking calculations and numerical operations within the scope of this unit

recording and reporting service activities

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

the operation of suspension systems and the effects of steering geometry and alignment

the procedures, tools, techniques and equipment for checking suspension system components for wear, faults, security and conformance to specification

the action to be taken to correct non-conformance to specification

the procedures for aligning axles

the axle alignment specifications

the tools, techniques and equipment required to maintain and repair suspension systems

the reasons for selecting the chosen tools, techniques and equipment

the procedures for adjusting ride height

the ride height specifications

the procedures to be followed in re-gassing suspension systems

the precautions to be taken when re-gassing suspension systems

the procedures for the removal and replacement of suspension systems

the precautions to be taken when removing/replacing suspension systems

hazards and control measures associate with maintaining and rectifying suspension systems, including housekeeping

safe work practices and procedures

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to maintain suspension systems. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with maintaining suspension systems or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.

Method of assessment

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Guidance information for assessment

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Unit sector

Maintenance and diagnostics

This unit contains employability skills.