DAILY JOURNAL: Why is choosing the correct motor oil viscosity more critical than simply keeping the oil level full?
TODAY'S SCHEDULE:
Daily Journal & Attendance
Science Garage: Motor Oil Video & Quiz
Oil Recycling Prep & Shop Cleanup
Lab Work Time (Quiz Completers)
Tool Accountability & Final Cleanup
Watch the Science Garage: Motor Oil Mechanics & Specifications video and complete the Canvas quiz (two attempts max). Perfect score = donut reward.
VIDEO: https://youtu.be/5UsprOh1gzo?si=2scpN5LhUFAvgTF7
OIL CHANGE CLEANUP PROTOCOL: Students who performed oil changes must transfer all discarded oil into appropriate smaller containers → box containers → load into Mr. McAteer's vehicle for recycling transport.
⚠️ ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY: All waste oil must be properly containerized before leaving the shop. ⚠️
💡 QUIZ TIP: The video covers viscosity ratings, temperature behavior, and why your Owner's Manual is the final authority. Take notes.
LAB ACCESS: Once quiz is completed, students may work on personal projects in either Autos or Metals lab.
DAILY JOURNAL: What makes a Plan of Procedure an effective communication tool between technician and customer?
TODAY'S SCHEDULE:
Daily Journal & Attendance
Lab Work - Personal POPs
Progress Check-In
Clean-Up & Tool Accountability
Continue developing your Plan of Procedure projects. Focus on clear documentation, proper sequencing, and professional presentation standards.
⚠️ WORKSPACE ACCOUNTABILITY: Your area reflects your professionalism. ⚠️
⚠️ No access to the lift without a fantastic Plan of Procedure⚠️
💡 TIP: Invisible preparation enables quality visible work - your POP should show the thinking behind every action.
DAILY JOURNAL: What separates professional-quality work from amateur work in automotive detailing?
TODAY'S SCHEDULE:
Plan of Procedure Work Session
Clean-Up
Watch how professionals approach detailing differently than amateurs, then apply that attention to detail mindset to your Plan of Procedure projects.
⚠️ ABBREVIATED MONDAY: Professional habits start with efficient use of time. ⚠️
💡 TIP: Invisible preparation enables quality visible work - applies to detailing AND documentation.
Continue engine portfolio completion and diagnostics work
Portfolio Work (55 min)
Finish any incomplete portfolios
Print and submit for grading
Work on diagnostic assignments
Catch up on missing work
Same focus as Monday
Print when complete
Portfolios go home
Use time wisely
AUTOS MONDAY 11.10.25
DAILY JOURNAL: What does a complete engine portfolio demonstrate to your parents about your learning this quarter?
TODAY'S SCHEDULE:
Portfolio Completion & Corrections (60 min)
Engine Removal & Storage (20 min)
Portfolio Print & Home Prep (10 min)
Plan of Procedure Lab Time
Students will complete missing sections of their engine portfolios, then print final versions for parent review. This printed portfolio replaces any incomplete previous grade and goes home today.
⚠️ GRADE RECOVERY OPPORTUNITY: A complete printed portfolio = fresh grade for this assignment ⚠️
💡 PORTFOLIO TIP: Fix photos NOW - retake any missing measurements with engines still in the lab before removal.
UPCOMING DEADLINES:
Printed Portfolio to Parents (DUE 11/10 - today)
Signed Parent Review Form (DUE 11/13)
What needs fixing before printing:
Missing photos → retake with engine
Missing measurements → measure before removal
Blank sections → complete now
Learn POP standards through completed plan of procedure dissection
POP Demonstration (15 min)
Mr. McAteer walks through completed oil change POP
Complete documentation example
Simple project = valid project
Diagnostics Lab (50 min)
Continue tablet assignments
Work in appropriate lab
Apply what you learned from demo
Extreme Clean for a donut!
POPs required for shop access
All skill levels work together today
Documentation matters as much as the work
Complete Plan of Procedure using multi-lab access.
Finish POPs → shop access approval
Work wherever helps most
Lab Work (50 min):
Choose your workspace:
Metals computer lab → Technical drawings/CAD
Autos computer lab → Research specs/procedures
Autos shop → Hands-on measurements
POP must include:
Project description with vehicle details
All measurements (with units)
Technical drawings (proper line types)
Step-by-step procedures
Materials list
Autos 1/2/3 → Pick project matching your skill level
Incomplete POP = computer work only Wednesday
Reference example POP when stuck
Complete vehicle diagnostic procedures using tablet scan tools and OBD-II port connections.
Vehicle diagnostics with tablets
Reading trouble codes and live data
Diagnostic report documentation
Tablet Connection (5 min):
Tablets are now on WiFi and functioning
Connect tablet to vehicle's OBD-II port
Launch diagnostic application
Vehicle Diagnostics Session (50 min):
Run full diagnostic scan on your vehicle
Record trouble codes and live data
Document findings in diagnostic report
Analyze results
Alternative Protocol:
If your vehicle isn't available: Use Mr. McAteer's car OR your partner's vehicle
Callback to first diagnostic day - apply previous experience
Everyone completes a scan today
Tablets connect via OBD-II port - not Bluetooth
Check tablet charge before starting
Record all data accurately
Please work on your Plan of Procedure if you finish early or are waiting to use one of the tablets.🔗
Complete and refine automotive fabrication Plan of Procedure (POP) documents; prepare for project execution.
Finalizing POP documentation
Peer review and quality check
Beginning project material gathering
Earning shop access through completed work
POP Review & Donuts (15 min):
Each student presents POP to Mr. McAteer for approval
Must show completed sections before receiving donut
Quick feedback on completeness and clarity
Address any missing elements
POP Refinement (20 min):
Incorporate feedback from review
Add specific measurements and material specifications
Ensure all sections are thoroughly completed
Double-check file naming and sharing permissions
Material Planning (15 min):
Create material list from your POP
Check shop inventory for available materials
Identify what needs to be ordered/acquired
Begin thinking about tool requirements
Shop Prep & Introduction (10 min):
Shop access restored - review safety protocols
Brief walkthrough of where materials are located
Discuss project timeline expectations
✅ COMPLETED POP - all sections filled out
✅ Proper file naming: LastName_FirstName_Automotive_POP
✅ Shared with Mr. McAteer (Editor permissions)
🍩 No POP review = No donut
Your POP quality determines project approval
Be ready to explain your project choices
Shop access depends on completed documentation
Projects begin if POPs are approved
AUTOS AGENDA: 10.27.2025
OBJECTIVE:
Develop project planning skills by creating a complete Plan of Procedure (POP) for an automotive fabrication project.
TODAY'S FOCUS:
Understanding POP documentation structure
Selecting skill-appropriate projects
Creating detailed project plans
Professional documentation practices
CLASS ACTIVITIES:
Introduction (10 min):
Review 🔗 Example Automotive POP: Custom Battery Hold-Down Bracket 🔗(provided)
Study format, sections, and required detail level
Notice: vehicle-specific problem, real measurements, detailed procedures
Ask questions about structure
Project Selection & Planning (35 min):
Choose an automotive project matching your skill level:
Beginner: Simple bracket, tool holder, mounting plate
Intermediate: Multi-piece assembly, console organizer, pedal extension
Advanced: Complex fabrication with welding, custom components
Create new Google Doc in shared folder
Begin filling out all POP sections using example as model
Continue Working (15 min):
Complete as much of your POP as possible
Focus on: Project description, materials needed, skills required
Reference example POP as needed
DUE TODAY:
Progress work - POP should be started with project name and description completed
SUBMISSION:
File name: LastName_FirstName_Automotive_POP
Save in shared Google Drive folder
Share with Mr. McAteer (Editor permissions)
REMINDERS:
⚠️ NO SHOP ACCESS TODAY - Computer lab only
Choose a project you actually want to build
This document guides your entire project - be thorough
Technical drawing is a language - we continue learning Tuesday
Good sub note = donuts Tuesday
AUTOS AGENDA: 10.23.2025
THURSDAY 10/23
DAILY JOURNAL: What's the difference between a hard code and a pending code in automotive diagnostics? Why does this matter for repair decisions?
TODAY'S FOCUS:
MX808 Scanning Completion (Student Lot)
Bumper Sticker Design Finalization (Computer Lab)
Small Engine Reassembly (Auto Lab)
Complete all diagnostic scanning assignments and finalize bumper sticker designs for printing.
MX808 DIAGNOSTIC SCANNING (STUDENT LOT)
Scanning Process:
Auto Scan → Read Codes → Live Data → I/M Readiness
Generate PDF report before leaving vehicle
File: LastName_FirstName_Year_Make_Model_10-23-2025.pdf
Upload to Canvas + Google Drive
BUMPER STICKER DESIGN (COMPUTER LAB)
Final submissions due today.
Specifications:
Dimensions: 10" × 3"
File: LastName_FirstName_BS.pdf
Upload to Canvas
Cost Reality: Professional vinyl stickers this size cost $8-12 each for single prints. Your design will be printed on the school's vinyl cutter at no cost to you.
Weeding Matters: After cutting, you must weed (remove excess vinyl) around your design. Complex designs = hours of tedious weeding work. Simple, bold designs with clean lines weed in minutes. Think carefully about your design complexity.
💡 Design Tip: If a shape is smaller than a pencil eraser, it will be nearly impossible to weed cleanly.
SMALL ENGINE REASSEMBLY (AUTO LAB)
Focus Today:
Gasket verification using tear-down photos
Bolt sequencing per torque spec charts
Verify all parts are clean and ready for assembly
UPCOMING DEADLINES:
Small Engine Reassembly
MX808 Scanning Reports
Bumper Sticker Design
END-OF-CLASS CHECKLIST:
✓ MX808 scanners returned to charging station
✓ All PDFs uploaded to Canvas + Drive
✓ Bumper stickers submitted
✓ Work areas cleaned and tools put away
AUTOS AGENDA TUESDAY 10/21/2025
DAILY JOURNAL: When a scan tool shows "Communication Error," what are three systematic troubleshooting steps you should try before asking for help?
MX808 Diagnostic Scanning (STUDENT LOT) → Partner assignment scanning real vehicles with professional equipment.
Bumper Sticker Design (COMPUTER LAB) → Continue design work for students who finished scanning or are waiting for scanner availability.
Small Engine Reassembly (AUTO LAB) → Students finishing engines should focus on gasket placement and bolt sequencing.
Required Video: "How to use Autel Maxicom MK808 Car Diagnostic Scanner"
Watch 0:00-10:00 before scanner checkout. Focus on connection, auto scan, and live data.
Equipment Checkout:
Sign out MX808 scanner from charging station
Grab 🔗 worksheet🔗 + clipboard
Locate your assigned vehicle in student lot
Scanning Process (35 minutes):
Auto Scan → Screenshot #1
Read Codes → Screenshot #2
Live Data (swap roles with partner) → Screenshot #3
I/M Readiness → Screenshot #4
Generate PDF Report (before leaving vehicle)
File Naming & Storage:
LastName_FirstName_Year_Make_Model_Date.pdf
Example: Smith_John_2018_Honda_Civic_10-21-2025.pdf
Save to:
Your Google Drive (for future reference)
Upload to Canvas assignment
⚠️ PARKING LOT RULES: Stay with your vehicle. Watch for moving cars. Return scanner immediately if technical issues occur. ⚠️
For students who:
Already completed scanning yesterday
Are waiting for scanner availability
Need to finish design work
Requirements:
Dimensions: 10" × 3"
Automotive-themed content
Clean, readable design
File Naming:
LastName_FirstName_BS.pdf
💡 Design Tip: Bold, simple designs work best. Think readability from 20 feet away.
Focus Today:
Gasket verification using tear-down photos
Bolt sequencing per torque spec charts
Prep for compression testing by week's end
⚠️ Do NOT proceed if missing gaskets or hardware—see Mr. McAteer first. ⚠️
✓ Scanner users: Return equipment signed in before end of class
✓ Computer lab: Work productively—no YouTube/gaming
✓ Small engines: Reference photos before reassembly
✓ Everyone: Save diagnostic PDF to your Drive + upload to Canvas
END-OF-CLASS CHECKLIST:
✓ MX808 returned to charging station
✓ PDF saved to your Google Drive
✓ Design files saved correctly
✓ Work area cleaned and tools put away
AUTOS AGENDA: 10.20.2025
DAILY JOURNAL: Why is branding and visual identity (like logos and stickers) just as important for a shop or technician as mechanical skill?
TODAY'S PRIORITIES
1. Bumper Sticker Design (COMPUTER LAB) → The entire class will be in the lab working on the Adobe Illustrator project.
2. Autos Lab Cleanup (SELECT STUDENTS) → A few students will be asked to remain in the lab to clean tools and wipe down tables.
3. Grade Verification (PERSONAL TASK) → Address the Canvas grade-book error by fixing any past submissions.
TASK 1: BUMPER STICKER DESIGN (COMPUTER LAB)
The primary task for today is working on your 3" x 10" bumper sticker in Adobe Illustrator.
• Remember to use the peer experts (Audrey and Calan) for help before interrupting the instructor.
• Focus on clean design, clear messaging, and correct file setup.
• File Naming: LastName_FirstName_BumperSticker.ai
TASK 2: LAB CLEANUP
Mr. McAteer will assign a small group to stay in the auto lab. Your task is to conduct a thorough cleanup: put away all tools, wipe down all tables and surfaces, and organize the main workbenches.
⚠️ A NOTE ON GRADES
Quarter grades were inflated due to a Canvas error. If you know you fall into this category (missing work, low scores), this is your opportunity to fix it.
• Use this time to find any missing assignments.
• Ensure all past files are correctly named and submitted in the right location in the manner requested.
• This is your personal responsibility.
EXPECTATIONS
✓ Work quietly and productively in the computer lab.
✓ Students in the lab: clean thoroughly and efficiently.
✓ Proactively check and fix your past submissions in Canvas.
DAILY JOURNAL: How does visual design, like a well-made sticker or vehicle wrap, contribute to a car's identity and value?
1. Engine Demonstrations & Reassembly → Continue working to complete your motor. Students who are ready will demonstrate the start process for grading.
2. Courtyard Cleanup (ALL HANDS) → We are clearing the courtyard to make space for new projects. Everyone will help.
3. Bumper Sticker Challenge (IF FINISHED) → Once your engine work is done, you will move to the computer lab to begin the first design project.
Continue reassembly with the goal of completion. If you are ready for a demonstration, follow the procedure:
Notify Mr. McAteer.
Move to the designated outdoor bay.
Demonstrate the start process and compare it with the stock motor.
⚠️ Safety rules remain in full effect. All starts are outside. No exceptions.
Once your engine station is clean, grab a broom or rake. We are sweeping the entire courtyard work area to remove debris and junk. This space is needed for upcoming hands-on work.
For students who have completed all engine work.
Head to the computer lab to begin designing a 3" x 10" bumper sticker using Adobe Illustrator.
Getting Help:
Beginner Tutorial: A good self-paced resource is Adobe's "Get Started with Illustrator" Series: https://helpx.adobe.com/illustrator/get-started.html
File Naming:
LastName_FirstName_BumperSticker.ai
✓ Make steady progress on your engine reassembly.
✓ Participate fully in the courtyard cleanup.
✓ Begin the design challenge only after other tasks are done.
DAILY JOURNAL: Why is a specific, repeatable procedure (like a checklist) essential when working on complex mechanical systems like an engine?
Engine Reassembly (Main Goal) → Final workdays are Today (10/14) and Thursday (10/16). Use this time to conclude all disassembly and reassembly.
Demonstrations (As Ready) → Students with completed motors will begin the start-up and grading process.
When your motor is fully reassembled, you must:
Notify Mr. McAteer that you are ready for your final evaluation.
Move the engine to a designated outdoor covered bay.
Demonstrate the complete start process.
Compare your running motor to the stock motor with the instructor.
Show McAteer your complete profile for final review.
Your quarter grade will be submitted upon successful completion.
✓ All engine starts MUST occur outside under the covered bays.
✓ NO starting engines inside or near any open doors. ✓ Eye and ear protection are MANDATORY during all engine runs.
✓ Ensure a fire extinguisher is present at your station before starting.
Failure to follow safety rules will result in an immediate stop to your work and loss of safety points x/50 points.
✓ Work efficiently to complete your engine by Thursday's deadline
✓ Keep your workstation clean and organized.
✓ Follow all demonstration and safety procedures exactly.
✓ Get your grade submitted before the quarter ends.
DAILY JOURNAL: What does your portfolio say about your work ethic?
Video (First) → Watch and discuss
Portfolio Completion (Remaining class) → Final deadline
Complete and submit your Engine Disassembly Portfolio
✓ Focused work entire period
✓ Collaboration encouraged
✓ Ask for help when stuck
✓ Submit before leaving
Due: Tonight at midnight
Late: 10% penalty after midnight
During class: Excellent exemplars will be shown to the class
Reward: Candy for portfolios demonstrating excellence
This is your largest first quarter grade. Finish strong.
AUTOS AGENDA: 10.09.2025
Mr. McAteer is out. Be kind/respectful to the sub please.
AUTOS 101 - PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION DAY
WHY TODAY MATTERS
Your Engine Disassembly Portfolio is your largest first quarter grade (100 points).
This document is proof you learned the core skills of this course:
Technical disassembly
Precision measurement
Professional documentation
Today = your last chance to make it excellent.
WHAT YOU'RE DOING TODAY
NOT starting motors.
NOT starting motors.
Not starting motors.
Jacoby, don't start your motor.
YES working on portfolios.
Your mission:
Open your Engine Lab Portfolio (Google Doc)
Fix what's missing or unclear
Submit to Canvas by end of class
TODAY:
Tuning Video (First) Watch: https://youtu.be/LjZlAzr8MuQ?list=PL7vmZIIACYZkQ--jliVJFXR9KkBseJ_qs
This is what you asked for. The #1 topic you wanted to learn.
Reassembly & Tuning Lab (Remaining time)
Continue small engine reassembly
Start unmodified motor for baseline comparison
Listen. Watch. Feel the difference.
⚠️ Clean as you work. Tools stay organized. Safety points at stake. ⚠️
"You can't tune what you don't understand."
⚠️ Last graded activity before quarterly grade check ⚠️
TODAY:
Video & Worksheet (25-30 min)
Lab Cleanup (10-15 min)
ALL tools returned to proper locations
Clean surfaces completely
Report missing items
⚠️ MESSY STATIONS = SAFETY POINTS LOST. Left-out tools increase theft. Clean as you work. ⚠️
Reassembly (Remaining time)
Continue current projects
Work extends into Tuesday's block period
CURIOUS? Watch this after you finish:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQvfHyfgBtA&pp=ygUiYW5pbWFncmFmZnMgaG93IGEgY2FyIGVuZ2luZSB3b3Jrcw%3D%3D
Autos Agenda: 10.02.2025
Dream Project & Skills Survey
Task: Complete interest survey shaping future course direction
Sections: Engine journey reflection • Your vehicle reality • Skills exploration (circle 3, explain #1) • Capstone vision • Industry expert wishlist • Monday topic needs
Why: Your responses determine Phase 2 projects, Monday topics, and expert visits
Autos Agenda: 09.30.2025
Engine Reassembly Lab
Critical Torque Sequence Task: Continue reassembly using proper torque specs and photo documentation. Follow the critical sequence below, using a crisscross pattern on the side cover and head. Remember, anything not connected will fall out!
Connecting Rod: 9 ft-lbs (108 in-lbs) - Oil threads before torquing.
Side Cover: 17 ft-lbs (204 in-lbs)
Cylinder Head: 17 ft-lbs (204 in-lbs)
Rocker Arms: 7 ft-lbs (84 in-lbs) - Set valve lash after.
Flywheel: 54 ft-lbs
Available: Spring compressors, ring compressors, plastic scrapers, torque wrenches
Autos Agenda: 09.29.2025
Documentation Audit + Reassembly Prep
New equipment arrived: Spring compressors, ring compressors, plastic gasket scrapers
While you watch: Engine configurations in real motorcycles
Video Link: https://youtu.be/aOTz0Ol8fLA?si=2ZjPHGzyH2mj5x1O
Connection: Apply last week's 2-stroke/4-stroke theory → see and hear engines in action
Content: Singles, V-twins, inline twins, triples, and more—real applications
Meanwhile: Instructor audits each group's documentation
Must have ready for review:
Photo documentation → Complete disassembly sequence
Progress updates → Current status notes
Torque specs → From last week's disassembly guide
Spring compressors
Ring compressors
Plastic gasket scrapers
Reference: Torque specs from disassembly guide
Next Step: Groups approved after audit can begin reassembly
Autos Agenda: 09.24.2025
Computer Lab: Engine Theory
Today's Focus: 4-Stroke vs 2-Stroke Analysis
Location: Computer lab Task: Complete engine comparison worksheet
Connection: Links to your 212 Predator teardown
Format: Partner discussion → individual worksheet completion
Deliverable: Completed worksheet + broken parts inventory
Autos Agenda: 09.23.2025
Today's Focus: Systematic Disassembly
Primary Task: Gasket removal and component cleaning
Continue from Thursday's progress → methodical teardown sequence
Cleaning Protocol: Remove all old gasket material → complete surface preparation
Documentation Requirement: Extensive photo documentation at every stage
Photo Documentation Strategy
Critical: Before, during, and after each component removal
Before: Component in original position
During: Removal process and technique
After: Clean component and mating surface
Goal: Create complete visual rebuild reference
Safety Requirements
Full PPE mandatory → Safety glasses, gloves, appropriate clothing
Workspace organization → Clean as you progress
Autos Agenda: 09.22.2025
Today, we pause and plan before reassembly. You're halfway through—now it's time to think before you rebuild.
Location: Computer Lab
Task: Research and handwrite your Predator 212 reassembly plan
Focus: Identify the critical steps you cannot mess up (CLICK HERE FOR REMINDER)
Materials: Paper, pen, and internet access for research
Assignment:
Using the critical steps guide provided, research and handwrite your personal reassembly plan. Include proper terminology and specific details for your engine.
If You Finish Early:
Resubmit your True Cost of Ownership assignment
Begin your bumper sticker design in Adobe Illustrator
Outcome: Submit your handwritten reassembly plan by end of class
Autos Agenda: 09.18.2025
Today, you will demonstrate your understanding of the engine teardown. This is a verbal assessment to show what you have learned through hands-on work and independent research.
• Sign Up: Upon arrival, sign up for an assessment time on the sheet by the door. Both partners must be assessed individually.
• Prepare: While waiting, review your disassembled parts and watch "Predator 212 Teardown" videos on YouTube. Use this time to prepare with your partner.
• Assessment: At your scheduled time, you will have a brief, 5-question verbal quiz about your engine components and their function.
• Outcome: Your goal is to score at least 6/10 on the assessment to demonstrate proficiency and earn a reward.
Today, we begin our engine disassembly project. The focus is not on speed, but on precision, organization, and establishing the habits that will guarantee a successful rebuild.
Assignment: Access the "Engine Disassembly & Measurement" digital portfolio using the link below. While you will work with a lab partner, you must each make your own copy and are responsible for completing your own document individually.
Engine Documentation: Begin Phase 1 of the portfolio. You must take all six required "before" photos and record the engine's identification numbers in your personal copy. I will approve your photos before you proceed.
External Disassembly: Proceed to Phase 2. Carefully remove all external components (recoil, air filter, muffler, carburetor), following the "Bag and Tag" rule for all hardware.
Outcome: Submit your in-progress digital portfolio, with all photos and data from today, to the "Engine Lab - Day 1" assignment on Canvas to receive your participation credit.
Today, we establish the foundation for your semester project. You will select a vehicle and conduct your first analysis: calculating its true cost of ownership.
Assignment: Meet in the computer lab to access the "True Cost of Ownership" Google Doc.
Vehicle Selection: Choose your semester project vehicle and record the first 8 digits of its VIN in the document.
Research Challenge: Begin the 40-minute challenge to find and document the vehicle's ownership costs.
Outcome: Submit the completed cost-of-ownership analysis by the end of class.