vcc.ca
HPAS 2260: High Performance Engine Tuning and Dynamometers
Effective date
January 2026
Department
Auto Serv Tech Diploma Intl
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
Building from the skills in HPAS 2210, in this course the students will gain hands-on experience tuning engines using a chassis dynamometer. The course focuses on improving engine performance by applying mechanical principles, tuning mathematics, and engine management strategies. Topics include volumetric efficiency, air induction, tuned exhaust systems, fuel and ignition adjustments, engine mapping, and re-flashing calibrations with specialized software and protocols.
Credits
2.0
Year of study
2nd Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
HPAS 2210, or department permission.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Use a chassis dynamometer for performing engine tuning.
- Apply engine mechanical theory and tuning mathematics to enhance performance, including optimizing volumetric efficiency, air induction, and exhaust systems.
- Apply engine management theory to optimize performance, including ignition timing, fuel delivery, air management, emissions control, and fuel trim systems.
- Optimize engine output and dynamics by adjusting fuel and ignition tables through engine mapping and custom settings.
- Reflash updated engine calibrations using appropriate programs, protocols, and software.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 20
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 30
Total Hours: 50
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 30
Total Hours: 50
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 High Performance Engine Tuning and Dynamometers. |
|
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
- Safe dynamometer usage
- Engine dynamics
- Tuning mathematics
- Engine management
- The tuning process
Learning resources
Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service (Published by Pearson)
Moodle (LMS)
Turning hardware, software and Dynamometers
Moodle (LMS)
Turning hardware, software and Dynamometers
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.