The unit covers a number of steering systems for vehicles, mobile plant and equipment - manual, hydraulically assisted, full hydraulic, articulated and track type systems such as hydrostatic, clutch and differential steering systems.

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 steering system operation

1.1. Relevant information is obtained and correctly interpreted prior to any testing.

1.2. Performance tests are undertaken on primary and/or emergency steering systems safely and to prescribed procedures.

1.3. Flows, pressures, alignment angles are correctly determined and recorded.

1.4. Faults are correctly isolated to component level and appropriate corrective action is determined.

1.5. Power assisted steering component functions, wheel/axle alignment principles, terminology and applications are understood.

1.6. Test equipment is used correctly.

2. Repair/replace faulty components

2.1. Component wear and clearances are correctly determined using appropriate test equipment and manufacturers' recommendations.

2.2. Replacement components are correctly selected using manufacturers' data.

2.3. Components are removed and refitted following prescribed procedures.

2.4. Alignment adjustments are made that bring wheel/axles in line with specifications.

2.5. Test and rectification activities are accurately recorded.

2.6. Adjustments are made to primary and/or emergency steering systems that bring system in line with specifications.

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 for conformance to specification

testing steering system for correct performance

recording all test results and measurements

using all test equipment correctly and appropriately

measuring steering system components using appropriate tools, techniques and equipment

removing and refitting steering system components

selecting replacement components using manufacturers' data

aligning wheels and axles to specification

undertaking calculations and numerical operations within the scope of this unit

recording test and rectification activities

adjusting the steering system in accordance with specifications

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

operation of the steering system and its components

procedures for testing steering system performance and tests to be undertaken

the tools, techniques and equipment necessary to maintain and rectify steering systems

the reasons for selecting the chosen tools, techniques and equipment

the precautions to be taken when testing steering systems

procedures for recording test results

identification of faulty components and corrective action to be taken

the reasons for selecting the chosen corrective action

the operation of power assisted steering systems

the effects of wheel/axle alignment on steering system operation

measuring equipment to be used

the procedures for checking components for wear and clearance

the procedures and precautions for removing and refitting steering system components

the procedures for aligning wheels and axles

the procedures for recording test and rectification activities

the procedures for adjusting primary and emergency steering systems

the effect of adjustments on the steering system specifications

safe work practices and procedures

hazard and control measures associated with maintaining and rectifying steering systems, including housekeeping

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 steering 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 steering 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. 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.

Steering system

Manual, hydraulically assisted, full hydraulic, articulated and track type systems such as hydrostatic, clutch and differential steering systems for vehicles, mobile plant and equipment

Unit sector

Maintenance and diagnostics

This unit contains employability skills.