Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:48 PM AWST

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Diagnose and repair mechanical connections of heavy vehicles and trailers over 4.5 tonnes

Diagnose and repair mechanical connections of heavy vehicles and trailers over 4.5 tonnes

Unit of competency
National Code
AURHTY3002
State Code
WF172
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
17/01/2013
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
07/08/2013
Field of Education
030503 - Vehicle Mechanics
Original Release Date
07/08/2013
Nominal Hours
10
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes required to diagnose and repair mechanical connection systems fitted to both the tractive unit and the towed unit. It involves diagnosing deviations from correct operation, repair operations of the mechanical connection system and associated components, and post-repair testing procedures.Licencing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements may apply to this unit in some jurisdictions. Users are advised to check with the relevant regulatory authority.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare to diagnose and repair a heavy vehicle mechanical connection system
  • 1.1. Workplace instructions are used to determine job requirements
  • 1.2. Workplace health and safety (WHS) requirements are observed and applied throughout the work
  • 1.3. Procedures and information are sourced
  • 1.4. Diagnosis options are analysed and those most appropriate to the circumstances are selected
  • 1.5. Appropriate diagnostic tools and equipment are selected and prepared
2. Diagnose a heavy vehicle mechanical connection system
  • 2.1. Diagnostic tests are performed according to workplace procedures and without causing damage to components or systems
  • 2.2. Faults are identified from diagnostic test results and causes of faults are determined
  • 2.3. Diagnosis findings are reported according to workplace procedures, including recommendations for necessary repairs or adjustments
3. Repair a heavy vehicle mechanical connection system
  • 3.1. Repair options are analysed and those most appropriate to the circumstances are selected
  • 3.2. Appropriate tooling, techniques and materials are selected and prepared
  • 3.3. Repairs and component replacements and adjustments are carried out without causing damage to components or systems and according to workplace procedures and manufacturer and component supplier specifications
  • 3.4. Post-repair testing is carried out according to workplace procedures and relevant legislation
4. Clean up work area and finalise work processes
  • 4.1. Final inspection is made to ensure work is to workplace expectations and vehicle and trailer is presented ready for use
  • 4.2. Tools and equipment are cleaned and stored according to workplace expectations
  • 4.3. Workplace documentation is processed according to workplace procedures
RANGE STATEMENT
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, 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.
Workplace instructions may include:
computer-generated instructions
verbal instructions
written instructions.
Job requirements may include:
mechanical connection systems diagnosis and repair methods, processes and equipment
Workplace health and safety (WHS) requirements:
are those prescribed under legislation, regulations, codes of practice, and workplace policies and procedures
may include:
protective clothing and equipment
use of tools and equipment
handling of material
use of fire-fighting equipment
first aid equipment
hazard control, including control of hazardous materials and toxic substances.
Procedures and information may include:
verbal, written and graphical instructions
signage
work schedules, plans and specifications
work bulletins or memos
material safety data sheets (MSDS)
diagrams or sketches
safe work procedures relating to the repair and replacement of heavy vehicle mechanical connections
regulatory and legislative requirements relating to the automotive industry
Australian Design Rules
Engineer’s design specifications and instructions
organisational work specifications and requirements
instructions issued by authorised workplace or external persons
Australian standards
heavy vehicle mechanical connections service requirements and repair manuals.
Diagnostic tests may include:
checking for slack in the fifth wheel operation, when connected to a trailer
inspecting top plate and brackets for cracks
inspecting the fifth wheel and mounting plate welds
use of a lock tester to check fifth wheel operation.
Faults may include:
non-engagement of fifth wheel jaws or locks
cracked welds
slackness or movement between mounting components.
Repair options may include:
component repair procedures, including
removal, replacement and adjustment procedures
dismantle, repair, re-assembly and adjustment procedures.
Post-repair testing may include:
correct engagement of fifth wheel jaws or locks
checking of clearances to manufacturers’ specifications.
EVIDENCE GUIDE
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge.
A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to:
observe safety procedures and requirements
select methods and techniques appropriate to the circumstances
complete preparatory activity in a systematic manner
diagnose and repair a range of heavy vehicle mechanical connection systems
diagnose and repair heavy vehicle mechanical connection systems according to workplace, manufacturer and component supplier requirements
present vehicle in a condition that complies with workplace requirements.
Context of, and specific resources for assessment
Competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment that accurately reflects performance in a real workplace setting.
Assessment is to occur:
using standard workplace practices and procedures
following safety requirements
applying environmental constraints.
Assessment is to comply with relevant:
regulatory requirements
Australian standards
industry codes of practice.
The following resources must be made available for the assessment of this unit:
workplace location or simulated workplace
heavy vehicles with mechanical connection system faults relevant to the qualification being sought
equipment appropriate for the testing of heavy vehicle mechanical connection systems
specifications and workplace instructions
tools appropriate for the repair, replacement and adjustment of heavy vehicle mechanical connection systems.
Method of assessment
Assessment must satisfy the endorsed Assessment Guidelines of this Training Package.
Assessment methods must confirm consistency and accuracy of performance (over time and in a range of workplace relevant contexts) together with the application of required skills and knowledge.
Assessment methods must be by direct observation of tasks and include questioning on required skills and knowledge to ensure correct interpretation and application.
Competence in this unit may be assessed in conjunction with other units which together form part of an holistic work role.
Where applicable, reasonable adjustment must be made to work environments and training situations to accommodate the needs of diverse clients.
Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally sensitive and appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed.
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
AXD12 AURHTY002 Diagnose and repair mechanical connections of heavy vehicles and trailers over 4.5 tonnes Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
J406 AUR31812 Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Trailer Technology Qualification