vcc.ca
HPAS 1220: Manual Drivetrain and Axles
Effective date
January 2026
Department
Auto Serv Tech Diploma Intl
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course explores various clutch systems, including conventional and dual disc clutches, and their components. Students will learn about the components of manual transmissions and transaxles and different types of drive shafts and axle shafts used in front-wheel and rear-wheel drive systems. Additionally, students will study the components of final drive assemblies and understand the functions of limited slip and locking differentials. The operation of all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) systems, as well as high-performance drive line components will also be covered.
Credits
3.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
HPAS 1000.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe the different types of clutch systems, including conventional and dual disc clutches, and their components.
- Describe the components of manual transmissions and transaxles, including gears, shafts, synchronizers, and linkages.
- Describe the different types of drive shafts and axle shafts, including those used in front-wheel and rear-wheel drive systems.
- Describe the components of final drive assemblies, including housings, gears, shafts, and axles, as well as understand the function of limited slip and locking differentials.
- Explain the operation of all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) systems.
- Describe high performance drive line components.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 27.5
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 50
Total Hours: 87.5
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 50
Total Hours: 87.5
Instructional Strategies
Classroom activities are lectures, demonstrations, audio-visual presentations and exercises. Practical experience takes place in an active shop setting. The extensive workshop experience provides reinforcement of theoretical concepts, develops hand skills, and familiarity with repair procedures, electronic equipment and standard safety procedures. All modules are designed to enable the student to work independently and in groups.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
70%
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
15 |
Assignments related to Manual Drivetrain and Axles. |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
15 |
|
|
Final Exam |
30 |
Students are given final exam at the end of the course to assess their theoretical knowledge. |
|
Lab Work |
30 |
Practical knowledge and skills are evaluated in the shop while students are working on training aids and customer vehicles. |
|
Participation |
10 |
Demonstrated engagement with course activities and discussions. |
Course topics
- Clutches
- Manual transmission and transaxles
- Drive shafts and axles
- Final drive assemblies
- 4WD & AWD systems
- High performance drive lines
Learning resources
Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service (Published by Pearson)
Moodle (LMS)
Moodle (LMS)
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.