About Us for automotive teachers by automotive teachers
The North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting and advancing high school and college automotive educators across North America.
Whether you're an experienced teacher or just starting out, NACAT is here to help you stay at the forefront of automotive technology and education
Membership Benefits
Mentor Programs, Get advice from automotive teachers from around North America
Annual Conference providing current and relevant training Lesson Plans, Resources and Training Library
NACAT News - Industry relevant articles and advertising.
Scholarships for educators and students to support their professional development
Affiliations with automotive manufacturers, equipment makers, publishers, and repair info providers
In This Issue:
NACAT President's Update
Drew Barnes, Vale School District
Tips & Tricks
Improving Student Attendance and Participation...in an Automotive Program
Rafael De Leon, President of Automotive Service Institute
NACAT Election Information
NACAT Membership Drive
NACAT 2025 Conference: Exhibitor and Sponsor Information
April 2025 issue - March 10, 2025 2025 NACAT Scholarships
NACAT 2025 Conference: Dr. Alan Taub, Keynote Speaker
NACAT Member Resources
NACAT 2025 Conference: Register for the NACAT Conference!
NACAT 2025 Conference: Agenda & Courses
NACAT 2025 Conference: AVTECC and MACS Certifications
NACAT Mentor Roundtable: Time Management
New and Renewing NACAT Members since December 1, 2024
VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo Educator Reception
Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Corner
Exploring the Toyota PC60 Hybrid Automatic Transmission
Curt Ward, Professor at Joliet Junior College
NACAT Member Benefit: Lesson Plans
NACAT 2025 Conference: Ford Rouge Factory Tour
NACAT Membership Information: School Memberships
June 2025 issue - May 10, 2025
August 2025 issue - July 10, 2025
October 2025 issue - September 10, 2025
December 2025 issue - November 10, 2025
February 2026 issue - January 10, 2026
NACAT President's Update
Drew Barnes
Vale School District
Greetings Fellow NACAT Members,
Happy New Year 2025! It’s hard to believe that we are already over half way through this school year. I am hoping each one of you had an enjoyable and restful holiday break. I know that I said it last year, but it truly is great to be able to take a step back and enjoy quality time with family and friends. It always helps to come back refreshed and ready to go, as we prepare to work with our students in the second half of the year. As this issue of NACAT News reaches you in February 2025, I know that you will all be very busy working with students in your classrooms/shops and doing your best to train successful future technicians.
It has been a very busy start to the year here at NACAT as well. We hit the ground running in early January, beginning with an outstanding discussion at our first mentor session of the year. That session was very well attended and very informative. Then, shortly thereafter, on January 14th we hosted another very successful online training session. This time, the topic was the more technical “Tesla Model 3 and Y in the Classroom”, led by Jack Rosebro. We can’t thank Jack enough for sharing his knowledge with the NACAT members on the call, as well as his continued support of our organization.
A year ago, in my President’s Update, I provided metrics on our membership. I feel like it is a good time to show where we are now, compared to just a year ago. If you remember, in 2020 our membership dropped down to 90 members and 1 Allied member. Last year at this time we had 180 members and 16 Allied members. I am proud to say we reached our initial goal of 200 members (and still growing each week) and 25 Allied members! As we look to the future, we will continue to look at strategies and make decisions to continue to grow and strengthen our organization.
It is that time of year again, NACAT board elections. Are you an active NACAT member, who is passionate about automotive education, and wondering how you can give back and help our organization? Please consider joining the NACAT board of directors. Elections will take place later this spring, as elections near, updated information will be posted to the website as well as our social media pages.
By the time you read this, we will have launched registration for the 2025 NACAT Conference in Detroit, MI. Please visit the website for up-to-date travel and hotel information
As always, if you have any questions about the happenings of NACAT or questions about this summer’s conference, please feel free to reach out to myself or any of the NACAT officers or board members. Keep up the great work and I am looking forward to seeing you all in person at the conference in June!
Thank you and see you soon!
Board of Directors
Chairman of the Board 2024 - 2025
Steve Gibson Riverside, California
Board Member 2022 - 2025
Ron Morris Greensboro, North Carolina
Todd Richardson Price, Utah
Board Member 2023 - 2026
Sara Heller Branchburg, New Jersey
Tom Millard Lakewood, Colorado
Board Member 2024 - 2027
Wade Johnson Harper, Oregon Rafael De Leon Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico
Kenneth Hardy Hawkinsville, Georgia
Tuition is expensive, especially for aspiring collision repair professionals who also need to stock their toolboxes, but the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) wants to help!
Funding is available for high school and college collision students to support their educational endeavors and unlocking a future in collision repair has never been simpler with our straightforward scholarship application process
3M "Hire Our Heroes": Offering special opportunities for deserving collision repair students who are currently serving or have recently served in the military. Special awards will also be available for collision repair students that have immediate family members who are currently serving or have recently served in the military.
WIN Scholarship: The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) has partnered up with CREF to administer its scholarship program, aiming at encouraging and empowering women with a passion for the collision repair industry.
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Tips & Tricks
Professor Rafael De Leon
President, Automotive Service Institute
Improving Student Attendance and Participation in Class and Shop Labs in an Automotive Program
Student attendance and participation are critical components of success in any educational program, particularly in automotive training programs where hands-on practice is essential. Ensuring consistent attendance and active participation not only enhances learning outcomes but also prepares students for the discipline and commitment required in the professional world. Here are strategies to improve both attendance and engagement in automotive classes and shop labs.
1. Create a Welcoming and Engaging Environment
A positive and engaging classroom and shop environment can motivate students to attend and participate actively. Foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and mutual support by:
• Greeting students by name and showing genuine interest in their progress.
• Encouraging open communication and making students feel valued.
• Incorporating team-based activities to build camaraderie and teamwork skills.
2. Make Content Relevant and Practical
Students are more likely to attend and participate when they see the relevance of what they are learning to their future careers. Achieve this by:
• Linking lessons to real-world scenarios in the automotive industry.
• Inviting guest speakers, such as successful technicians or shop owners, to share insights.
• Providing hands-on opportunities in the shop that simulate real-world challenges.
3. Implement Active Learning Strategies
Engagement often increases when students are actively involved in the learning process. Consider:
• Using problem-based learning, where students diagnose and solve real or simulated automotive issues.
• Incorporating multimedia tools such as videos, animations, and interactive simulations.
• Creating competitions, such as troubleshooting challenges, to encourage friendly rivalry and enthusiasm.
4. Set Clear Expectations and Policies
Establishing clear attendance and participation expectations helps students understand their responsibilities. Communicate these clearly in the syllabus and during orientation:
• Highlight how attendance and participation affect their grades and career readiness.
• Enforce policies consistently but with empathy, offering support for legitimate absences.
5. Provide Incentives and Recognition
Positive reinforcement can motivate students to attend and participate consistently:
• Offer small rewards, such as certificates, tools, or gift cards, for perfect attendance or active participation.
• Recognize achievements publicly, such as naming a "Student of the Week" or displaying top-performing students’ projects.
Continued on Page 9
6. Utilize Technology and Digital Tools
Leverage technology to increase engagement and track attendance:
• Use learning management systems (LMS) to share resources, assignments, and announcements.
• Incorporate virtual or augmented reality tools to teach complex automotive concepts.
• Use apps or software to track attendance and participation, providing immediate feedback to students.
7. Build Relationships and Provide Support
Students who feel supported are more likely to attend and engage. Build strong relationships by:
• Offering mentorship and career guidance to help students see the value of their education.
• Being approachable and addressing individual challenges that may hinder attendance, such as transportation or financial issues.
8. Foster Accountability
Encourage students to take ownership of their learning:
• Pair students in accountability teams to track each other’s attendance and progress.
• Include self-assessment components in the curriculum to promote self-reflection on participation.
9. Engage Parents and Employers
For younger students or those with apprenticeships, involving parents and employers can boost commitment:
• Regularly communicate progress and expectations to parents.
• Collaborate with employers to reinforce the importance of attendance and participation for career advancement.
10. Integrate ASE Standards and Correlated Tasks
Aligning the program with ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) standards ensures that students recognize the professional relevance of their education. Achieve this by:
• Incorporating ASE Standards: Design lessons and shop activities around ASE task lists,ensuring students gain proficiency in industry-recognized competencies.
• Mapping Tasks to Training Modules: Clearly correlate classroom and shop activities to specific ASE tasks. For example, align brake system diagnostics and repairs with ASE taskgroup "Brakes (A5)."
• Assessment Based on ASE Standards: Use ASE-style assessments to evaluate student progress, reinforcing the importance of mastering industry standards.
11. Regularly Evaluate and Adjust Strategies
Collect feedback from students and faculty to identify barriers to attendance and participation:
• Use surveys or informal discussions to gather insights.
• Adapt strategies based on feedback to address evolving student needs.
Conclusion
Improving attendance and participation in automotive programs requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both academic and personal factors. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, making lessons practical and relevant, and leveraging technology, educators can inspire students to fully engage in their learning journey. These efforts not only enhance student outcomes but also prepare them for the demands of the automotive industry
Electrical Skill Development Troubleshooting
Model 5810TT
Electrical Skill Development Troubleshooting (ESDTT) provides an in-depth, hands-on study of automotive electricity and electronics. Allows for troubleshooting skill development and competency testing. The internal fault board offers different computer-controlled hard faults. Both serial and parallel circuits can be configured to perform the activities in the ESDTT courseware.
Features:
Specialized Circuits:
~ DC to AC voltage inversion
~ DC motor generator
~ Force sensitive resistor
~ Precision temperature sensor
~ Optional submounts can be added to create customized circuits
~ Courseware included: Student Manual and Instructor Guide
~ Classroom Management Program (CMP) compatible
~ Network display and storage of student’s performance
~ Fault insertion with keypad or ATech Lab System (ALS)
~ Clear relays (observe contact movement!)
2025 2025 2025 CONFERENCE & EXPO
Logo on NACAT Website
Spotlight in NACAT News
½ page article in the NACAT News
One sponsored email per year
Your Allied membership includes
only $350peryear
Welcome Allied Member graphic on social media platforms
NACAT Allied Member logo to use on your website
Priority sign-up for NACAT Conference
Discount exhibitor space for NACAT Conference
Bold listing in the directory for NACAT Conference
Opportunity for exhibitors to participate in an attendee engagement activity, where attendees collect exhibitor signatures on postcards for a prize drawing. Exhibitors are encouraged to bring a prize for the giveaway.
NACAT scholarships are available for automotive instructors and students that are seeking to further their professional development and educational goals.
Instructor of the Year with Tomorrow's Tech
The Instructor of the Year program recognizes the auto instructor who takes an unconventional approach to education, works a little too hard and most importantly, is committed to educating the best future technicians
Application Deadline: Monthly winners from November 2024 through April 2025. Overall winner will be announced on May 2025.
2025 Automotive Instructor Scholarship
Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
Cengage provides a $2,000 scholarship that funds a 1-year NACAT membership and attendance to the annual NACAT conference This scholarship aims to support instructors who face budgetary constraints, ensuring they have the opportunity to benefit from the valuable networking and professional development opportunities that NACAT offers Cengage partners with NACAT to support continued learning and skill development for automotive instructors as well as their learners
2025 Mitchell1 Educator of the Year Award
The Mitchell1 Educator of the Year Award is presented at the NACAT Conference This award is presented to the educator that scored the highest on ASE tests during the past year. sponsored by
2025 Larry Cotten Memorial Scholarship
The Larry Cotten Memorial Scholarship is offered by the North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT). The $1,000 scholarship is awarded to a student training to become a collision repair technician.
Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
2025 Lisse Duvic Scholarship
In memory of Lisse Duvic, the Duvic family is offering a $500 scholarship for a first-time spouse attendee at the 2025 NACAT Conference This includes a guest package, two Awards Lunch tickets, and hotel support.
Application Deadline: April 15, 2025 sponsored by
MONDAY, JUNE 9 | 12:00 PM - 2:00
What is the NACAT Conference?
The NACAT Conference is an annual event uniting automotive educators and professionals from North America It offers networking, workshops, seminars, and hands-on training, promoting excellence and collaboration in automotive education.
Professional Development: Access workshops and training sessions to enhance teaching skills and stay updated on industry trends.
Networking: Connect with peers, industry professionals, and experts for collaboration and resource sharing
Access to Resources: Gain access to educational materials, curriculum development tools, and industry partnerships.
Inspiration: Get inspired by fresh ideas, innovative teaching strategies, and success stories from fellow educators.
Recognition: Showcase achievements, share best practices, and gain recognition for contributions to automotive education.
June 9-12, 2025
Conference at Detroit, Michigan with Ford Rouge Factory Tour
Detroit
20 HOURS 20 HOURS FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION
Bring the whole family! Our 2025 NACAT Conference offers activities for all ages, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience together
Elevate your teaching skills with specialized sessions designed to help educators engage and inspire the next generation of automotive professionals.
Get ready for some high-speed fun with our popular Valve Cover Races! Build, race, and compete for bragging rights in this exciting conference tradition
Continuing College Credit Hours
Attending our conference will earn you continuing education (2 CE) credit hours through Utah State University
WHICH FULFILLS THE ASE REQUIREMENTS Unlocking Teaching Potential! Join us and plan ahead! Make sure to include in 20242025 school year budget. Family-Friendly Event How-To Teach Training Valve Cover Races
10:00 am - 10:30 am: Break 11:30 am - 12:30 pm: Lunch 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm: Training 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Break
S1-2 Hybrid Electric Vehicle/Electric Vehicle Battery Safety Essentials Instructor Certification Sponsored by Coordinating Committee For Automotive Repair and Electude 2:15pm 5:15pm Bob
S1-3 MACS Section 609 Certification Prep Class and Test "For Educators" Sponsored by MACS 2:15pm 5:15pm Steve Schaeber
S1-4 Teaching EV Safety and Circuits in the Classroom (hands-on) Sponsored by Consulab 2:15pm 5:15pm Al Santini
S1-5 Utilizing AI to Develop Class Materials Sponsored by Electude 2:15
Keynote Details
As the automotive industry rapidly transitions electric mobility, equipping the next generation professionals with the skills and knowledge succeed has never been more critical In t keynote, Dr. Alan Taub, Director of the Univers of Michigan’s Electric Vehicle Center, will expl innovative strategies for integrating technologies into automotive curricula at the h school and college levels
The Opening General Session and Keynote w be Monday June 09, 2025 from 12:00pm - 2:00pm
Welcome Recep
Explore the future of skilled technology at the Skilled Tr Technology Center at Maco College This 130,000-squ unveiled in August 2023, fe classrooms and labs for ha fields like CNC machining, r more Join us to see how th the next generation of skill
NACAT Welcome Receptio Monday, June 09, 2025 | 6
Menchu
McGinn
2025 NACAT Conference
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
S2-1 Automotive Classroom Tips and Tricks 8:30am 11:30am Randy Klitzke
S2-2 Diagnosis and Repair of a HEV and EV According to ASE L3 in a 100% Safe Manner Sponsored by Lucas-Nuelle 8:30am 11:30am Dirk Niemeyer
S2-3 Preparing Students for the Hybrid and Electrified Vehicle Repair Industry Sponsored by Future Tech Automotive 8:30am 11:30am Russell Hutton
S2-4 Reflashing, Programing, Schools and Issues Sponsored by CDX Learning Systems 8:30am 11:30am Keith Santini
S2-5 Teaching ADAS Hands-On Sponsored by Consulab 8:30am 11:30am Al Santini
S3-1 Fault Finding in EV and All Platforms Sponsored by Megatech 2:30 PM 4:30 PM Jerry Hampton
S3-2 Introducing PWM And Frequency to Your Students (hands-on) Sponsored by ATech Training 2:30 PM 4:30 PM Jim Wilson
S3-3 Roundtable Discussion: Challenges & Successes in Post Secondary Automotive Education 2:30 PM 4:30 PM Roundtable
S3-5 Why There is Such A Misunderstanding About Servicing Brakes on Today's Vehicles Sponsored by Pro-Cut 2:30 PM 4:30 PM Steve Smith
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
S4-1 Active and Dynamic Fuel Management Sponsored by ACDelco 8:30am 11:30am Rob Roth
S4-2 Good C O P /Bad C O P - Advanced Ignition Diagnostics Sponsored by Delphi 8:30am 11:30am Dave Hobbs
S4-3 Hybrid and Electric Vehicle A/C Diagnosis Sponsored by Joliet Junior College / Pearson Education 8:30am 11:30am Curt Ward
S4-4 Introducing PWM And Frequency to Your Students (hands-on) Sponsored by ATech Training 8:30am 11:30am Jim Wilson
S4-5 The Fundamentals of Modern Transmission Controls and Logic Sponsored by ATRA 8:30am 11:30am Keith Clark
S5-1 Diesel Aftertreatment 1:15pm 4:15pm Kevin Looney
S5-2 Gasoline Direct Injection Sponsored by ACDelco 1:15pm 4:15pm Rob Roth
S5-3 High-Voltage Safety 2025 (hands-on) Sponsored by Earthling Automotive 1:15pm 4:15pm Jack Rosebro
S5-4 Keeping It Cool - Thermal Management Update for Conventional & Electrified Vehicles Sponsored by Delphi 1:15pm 4:15pm Dave Hobbs
S5-5 Teaching Hands-On Skills in the Automotive Classroom Sponsored by AVTECC 1:15pm 4:15pm David Macholz
as of 01/23/2025 Code Training
and availability
2025 NACAT Conference
Thursday, June 12, 2025
S6-1 AVTECC Certification (hands-on) Sponsored by AVTECC 8:30am 3:30pm David Macholz
S6-2 Ford 6 7L Powerstroke Generational Updates 8:30am 3:30pm Kevin Looney
S6-3 Teaching the Essentials of Electric Vehicle Technology Sponsored by Joliet Junior College / Pearson Education 8:30am 11:30am Curt Ward
S6-4 TPMS: Back to the Basics Sponsored by Dill Valves 8:30am 11:30am Sean Lannoo
S6-5 Traction Batteries, Power Electronics and Electric Motor Systems for Electric Vehicles Sponsored by Macomb Community College 8:30am 11:30am Nelson Kelly
S7-1 Increase Teacher Efficiency by 200%; Create Student e-Cheat Sheets and Lab Transcripts; Save Time With Your Work/Job Sheets Sponsored by Skilled2Hire 12:30 PM 3:30 PM Elie Massabki
S7-2 Developing Better Diagnostic Judgement and Critical Thinking Sponsored by TOPDON 12:30 PM 3:30 PM Haakan Light
Pricing Details
TRAINING COURSE SELECTION: Selections must be made in advance and are available on a first-come, first-served basis MEALS: Continental breakfast is served Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Lunch is served Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday Refreshment breaks are each day NACAT Member Discounts: NACAT Members receive a $100 discount on registration packages Visit nacat org to become a member or click the add-on option during your registration
REGISTRATION & PAYMENT: To register, please complete the online registration form at www nacat org Registrations must be received no later than June 4, 2025. Registrations accepted ONSITE ONLY after June 4, 2025 We cannot guarantee availability for late or on-site registrants
CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY: Full refunds will be granted, less a $30 processing fee, if cancellation is received in writing by May 1, 2025 No refunds will be granted after May 1, 2025 Name substitutions will be accepted.
2025 2025
June 9-12, 2025 at Detroit, Michigan
CERTIFICATIONS AVAILABLE AT THE CONFERENCE
AVTECC EV Safe Certification
Instructor Certification Training
During this course, instructors will learn about the EV Sa it at their institution The key component to delivery of the AVTECC EV Safe Certification is that the Instructor must be certified. During this course the attendees will each participate in a hands-on certification that involves preparing a hybrid or electric vehicle for work on the high voltage system.
Comprehensive Section 609 Certification and Proctor Opportunity
Comprehensive Section 609 test prep class focused on refrigerant handling, recycling, and certification, as mandated by the US EPA This class is tailored for educators and presented in a "train-the-trainer" format, making it an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of mobile A/C topics that you can pass on to your students
After successfully completing this class and passing the 609 test, educators can apply to become a "MACS 609 Test Proctor," allowing them to teach the MACS 609 Certification Test Prep Class for students at their school. This opportunity not only enhances your credibility as an instructor but also empowers you to provide up-to-date knowledge and skills directly to your students
REGISTRATION IS ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE BASIS.
Grant Funds to Put Students On the Road to Success
BEAT THE DEADLINE — APPLY TODAY TO RECEIVE UP TO $7,500 FROM PERC’S PROPANE AUTOGAS VEHICLE INSPECTION GRANT PROGRAM.
Don’t miss an easy way to expand your alternative fuel education, with grant funds from the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC). The Propane Autogas Vehicle Inspection Grant Program offers:
• A $5,000 propane-autogas-specific training aid designed to demonstrate the various components and systems involved in an autogas-powered vehicle
• $2,500 to fund travel for an instructor to attend a training class on the curriculum, “Propane Autogas Vehicle Inspection: Introduction for Automobile Service Technicians,” along with marketing materials to introduce the new curriculum to prospective students
The deadline to apply is March 1
CLICK TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION NOW!
Michael Beirise Kettering, OH
Neal Bixby Owosso, MI
Jennifer Briggs Owosso, MI
Wayne Carpenter Owosso, MI
Bruce Cochrane Owosso, MI
Michael Edmunds East Syracuse, NY
Cecilia Eisenbrandt Coffeyville, KS
Isa Farfan Thousand Oaks, CA
Jay Hales Riverton, UT
Chris Hamann Port Clinton, OH
Tom Haskins Bennington, VT
Dennis Johnson Fallbrook, CA
Paul Leathers Macy, NE
Robert McGowan Kansas City, KS
Alan Nagel Calgary, AB
Cuong Nguyen San Bernadino, CA
Thank you to those who have joined or renewed their membership since December 1, 2024.
Michael Nield Logan, UT
Margaret O'Neill Boston, MA
Ruben Parra San Bruno, CA
Mike Porcelli Glendale, NY
Rick Range Bakersfield, CA
Jeff Reeves Owosso, MI
Krystle Roherty Beaver Dam, NB
Richard Secrest Bronx, NY
George Strohl Mount Zion, IL
Theodore Terry Forest Hills, NY
Howard Wagner Vista, CA
James Whaley Park Hills, MO
Ritchie Wimmer Morro Bay, CA
Johnny Zogg North Platt, NE
Kelly Schropfer Red Deer, AB For Automotive Teachers... ...By Automotive Teachers
See you in Kansas City!
We will be leading the way on the Educator Think Tank during this year’s Vision conference in Kansas City.
EV-400 High Voltage
Safety Trainer
Attend our Electricity Workshop
Dave Giles and Jerome Bergeron-Carpentier will be presenting: “Help Me Teach All Things Electrical” – an electricity workshop.
Jérôme Bergeron-Carpentier Educational Specialist
Specialist
Hybrid & electric vehicle corner
Curt Ward
Professor at Joliet Junior College
Exploring the Toyota PC60 Hybrid Automatic Transmission
As I write this article, the winter holiday break is complete, and the spring term has begun. Recently, Toyota of North America donated a 2023 model year PC60 hybrid automatic transmission to our program. This single-motor hybrid design transmission was introduced to the United States in the Toyota Crown. This transmission is very different than the THS/HSD two-motor design that Toyota has used in their hybrids since their introduction. In this article I will share what I have learned during the initial teardown and how this unit can be incorporated in the hybrid and electric vehicle curriculum.
Toyota refers to the powertrain package as a “Dual Boost Hybrid System”. The single electric drive motor is sandwiched between a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine and an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission. According to Toyota, the engine provides 200-202 kW of power, and the electric drive motor provides 61-64 kW of power, depending on the application. The powertrain can be paired with the rear eAxle for all-wheel-drive applications.
The transmission is more compact than previous hybrid models used by Toyota (See Figure 1 – Transmission Assembly). The front inverter is mounted directly to the top of the transmission. The large diameter, flat-design electric drive motor with the engine disconnect clutch and the start clutch assemblies are in the front of the transmission where a torque converter would normally be located (See Figure 2 – Electric Drive Motor). The engine disconnect clutch, and the start clutch allows for electric only operation and to start the internal combustion engine. The friction elements in these clutch packs are designed to allow for improved fluid flow and increased cooling capacity. The drive motor is a permanent magnet design and uses a resolver to determine motor location, speed, and direction of rotation.
The Toyota PC60 transmission uses Toyota ATF WS (World Standard) transmission fluid; this is the recommended fluid for most modern Toyota automatic transmissions and is identified by part numbers like 00289-ATFWS or 08886-02305. One item that is unique in this hybrid transmission is the mechanical oil pump. Most hybrid transmissions incorporate an electric oil pump. This transmission relies on a chain-driven offset oil pump that is turned when the internal combustion engine is operating (See Figure 3 –Oil Pump on the facing page).
Behind the electric motor is an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission. The solenoids in the valve body directly control the hydraulic flow through the valve body (See Figure 4 – Valve body on the facing page).
Continued on Page 27
Figure 2: Electric Drive Motor
Figure 1: Transmission Assembly
A combination of input clutches and holding clutches act upon the planetary gear train to provide the six-forward gear ranges.
This transmission will be a great addition to the automatic transmission class as well as the hybrid electric vehicle class. The electric drive motor windings can be tested with a milli-ohm meter for equal resistance and with a megohm meter for loss of isolation, much like other hybrid and electric transmissions. Electrical elements such as the shift actuator, control solenoids, and the transmission temperature sensors can be tested with a conventional multimeter. The hydraulic elements of the transmission can be tested for leakage, measured for proper clearance, and inspected for unusual wear. As of the writing of this article, Toyota is only servicing external elements of the transmission such as the electronic shift actuator, axle seals, and the inverter. All internal failures of the unit require that the transmission be replaced.
I will finish this article with the same offer I make after each of my presentations. If you are interested in getting started in the process of adding hybrid and electric vehicles to your curriculum or want more information, please feel free to reach out. I am more than willing to sit down in-person or online and share my experiences. Are you looking for a classroom textbook? Reach out to Pearson and ask for a review copy of the all-new Electric and Hybrid Electric Vehicle text that Jim Halderman and I co-authored. It is a comprehensive text covering all the latest information on the subject.
The 2025 SEMA Scholarship application period for students pursuing careers in the automotive or performance parts industries is now open. Interested applicants can submit their application now through Saturday, March 1, at www.sema.org/scholarships.
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund supports career development and access to the automotive industry by offering financial awards of up to $5,000 to help foster the next generation of industry leaders and innovators. In addition to financial assistance, scholarship winners have the opportunity to attend the SEMA Show, providing unparalleled exposure to the industry’s workforce, as well as networking opportunities.
“Education can be expensive and deter students from pursuing careers in the industries that they are passionate about,” said Jose Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “With the SEMA Scholarship program, we aim to make education more affordable and accessible to the next generation of automotive industry leaders and open doors for them to see what’s possible.”
High school seniors and college students in the United States and Canada who demonstrate a passion for automotive hobbies and careers are eligible to apply. Scholarships are available in a variety of disciplines leading to a career in automotive aftermarket, including accounting, sales, marketing, engineering, and more.
Eligible students and SEMA-member company employees can apply until March 1, 2025
Figure 3: Oil Pump
Figure 4: Valve Body
As a NACAT member, you have exclusive access to lesson plans ready for use in your classroom!
Topics include: Topics include:
Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Systems
Starter Motor Composition
Ignition System Repair
Flow-Control Device
Transmission Lift Linkage and more!
The Ford Rouge Factory Tour celebrates America's manufacturing past, present, and future with our legacy gallery, Ford factory tour, and more.
Lifting It RightTM is the world’s best-selling lift safety training program. It’s the industry standard on how to properly operate any vehicle lift and is the only program developed and backed by the technical experts at the lift safety watchdog Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) and leading lift manufacturers.
Millions of students, professional technicians, and at-home mechanics have learned from Lifting It Right how to lift a car, truck, or SUV without causing injury or property damage. The interactive course teaches how to spot, lift and lower a vehicle, maintain load stability, and more.
With an annual subscription, you can offer the interactive course to all your students. Most students complete it in about an hour and will receive a certificate of completion after passing the final exam.
Lifting It RightTM safety manual second edition completely updated and expanded. Order today at autolift.org/store.
Written by expert authors
Providing theory and hands-on application
Aligned with the latest ASE Task Lists
Available in print and online
Supported by Online Instructor Resources
Contact your G-W Educational Consultant to learn more and request free samples. www.g-w.com/consultant
Applications are now being accepted for the annual Mitchell 1 Automotive Technology Scholarship through March 31. High school seniors and college students in the U.S. and Canada who wish to pursue a career in the auto repair industry are encouraged to apply for the scholarship by visiting the Automotive Aftermarket Scholarship Central website at www.AutomotiveScholarships.com
“We’re proud to continue our sponsorship of the Automotive Technology Scholarship as part of our commitment to supporting excellence in automotive education,” said Jen MacDonald, Director of Marketing for Mitchell 1. “Each year, we look forward to helping a deserving student achieve their goals and develop the skills they need for a successful career in the automotive industry.”
The recipient will receive a $2,500 scholarship, a check for $500 and roundtrip airfare and accommodations for the winner and a guest to attend the North American Council of Automotive Teachers (NACAT) conference to be held June 9-12, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan.
To be eligible, scholarship applicants must be a current student majoring in automotive technology / auto shop repair course work and meet the following criteria:
• Nomination from his/her NACAT instructor
• Minimum overall 3.0 grade point average
• Planning to attend an accredited college or university, or already enrolled in an accredited college or university
• A U.S. or Canadian citizen
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