Diesel Mechanic
On Being a Diesel Mechanic
A Diesel Mechanic is also often referred to as diesel technician. He does the tasks of repairing and maintaining diesel engines such as heavy trucks, buses and other locomotives. A diesel mechanic may also work on cranes, road graders and farm tractors. Sometimes, his work also includes small repair of automobiles or boats.
The servicing of various diesel-powered electric generators, compressors and pumps used in oil well drilling and irrigation systems are also parts of the work of a diesel mechanic. He also handles preventive maintenance that would ensure the safe operation of equipments. He is also in charge of eliminating unnecessary wear and damage to parts that may result to costly breakdowns.
When a routine maintenance check is being done with a truck, a diesel mechanic would follow a checklist that includes inspection of the steering mechanism, brake system and other important parts. In following an inspection, a diesel mechanic usually repairs or adjusts parts that do not work properly and replaces the parts that can no longer be fixed.
The diesel mechanic uses a variety of tools in doing his works which includes power tools like pneumatic wrenches (for removing bolts quickly), machine tools like lathes and grinding machines (to rebuild brakes), welding and flame-cutting equipment (to remove and repair exhaust systems, and jacks and hoists (to lift and move large parts). He also uses common hand tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches for working on small parts.
The diesel mechanic may also use a variety of computerized testing equipment to analyze and identify malfunction in electrical systems and engines. His assignments usually come from shop supervisors or service managers, who may be experienced mechanics themselves. A diesel mechanic may work alone but when doing heavy works like removing engines and transmissions, he may work with a team or be assisted by a helper or apprentice.
