Repairs and services large commercial vehicles such as buses, trucks, construction equipment, jeeps, and tractors.
Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos & Interviews
Videos on the Web
- Heavy Vehicle Mechanic- from: Youtube Search
Working Life
By the end of your training, you will be able to:
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Perform a range of technical tasks relating to the engine, diesel fuel systems, transmission, suspension, wheels and bodywork
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Diagnose/rectify faults in electrical circuits and install basic electrical equipment
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Interpret technical drawings and work with technical manuals and specifications
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Work with a variety of specialised hand and power tools and measuring devices
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Inspect and test systems and diagnose faults
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Perform routine maintenance and repairs on in-vehicle systems
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Work with jacks and hoists to lift and move heavy items.
Qualities -
As a Heavy Vehicle Mechanic you will need to be physically active and to be able to work with your hands.
An awareness of health and safety and good housekeeping is essential as well as attention to detail.
The Heavy Vehicle Mechanic must have the ability to:
- Plan and organise
- Communicate effectively
- Solve problems
- Work independently and as part of a team
- Show a positive attitude
- Recognise the need for good customer relations
- Demonstrate good work practices including time keeping, tidiness, responsibility, quality awareness and safety awareness
Core Skills
- Servicing: Carry out manufacturer’s service schedule. Complete a vehicle report form
- Engine: Carry out compression tests. Remove/overhaul cylinder heads. Diagnose turbo charger faults and remove/repair and replace components
- Diesel Fuel System: Remove/test and refit/replace injectors. Remove/ replace diesel injection components. Check exhaust emissions with smoke meter and diagnose faults. Remove/replace/time, fuel injection pumps. Remove/repair/ replace fuel lift pumps
- Transmission: Remove/refit gearboxes. Diagnose faults in clutch, remove/ replace components. Remove/replace driveshaft joints and bearings
- Suspension: Remove/replace suspension components
- Wheels: Balance wheels and repair punctures
- Bodywork: Remove/replace bodywork components e.g. door locks, windows and regulators. Repair/adjustment of mechanical and hydraulic types of cab tilting and locking devices. Fit safety crash barriers and reflector markings
- Lights Remove/replace components and focus headlights
Specialist Skills
- Brakes: Diagnose/rectify faults in ABS brakes. Diagnose faults in air assisted hydraulic and full air brake systems. Remove/replace and adjust system components
- Engine: Carry out complete engine overhaul
- Hydraulics: Overhauling and fitting tipping gear, tail lift and loading/ unloading crane equipment
- Suspension: Diagnose and rectify faults in pneumatically and electronically controlled air suspension systems
- Transmission: Diagnose faults in and overhaul gearboxes. Diagnose faults in and overhaul differential and hub-reduction units. Diagnose and rectify faults in pneumatically and electronically operated gear change, differential and inter axle locking mechanisms
- Electrical Diagnose/rectify faults in electrical circuits using wiring diagrams and multimeter. Remove/refit vehicle entertainment systems. Install basic electrical equipment
- Bodywork: Adjustment and overhaul/replacement of fifth wheel coupling and semi trailer king pin
Common Skills
- Metalwork: Basic bench fitting. Gas welding, brazing, cutting and arc welding brakes.
- Diagnose faults in hydraulic brakes system and remove/replace components
- Steering: Check and adjust steering geometry. Remove/replace steering components (manual and power assisted type steering)
- Engine: Remove/dismantle/reassemble and refit an engine. Diagnose faults in cooling system and remove/replace components
- Electrical: Diagnose/rectify faults in starting and charging systems and remove/ replace components. Diagnose/rectify faults in heating systems and remove/replace components
- Bodywork: Repair/adjustment of mechanical bodywork components e.g. door locks, windows and regulators
Note: A person wishing to become an apprentice Heavy Vehicle Mechanic must pass a colour–vision test approved by SOLAS.
Interests - Heavy Vehicle Mechanic
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Entry / Progression - Heavy Vehicle Mechanic
Pay & Salary - Heavy Vehicle Mechanic
* The lower figures typically reflect starting salaries. Higher salaries are awarded to those with greater experience and responsibility. Positions in Dublin sometimes command higher salaries.
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