Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge

Introduction

The Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge is designed to teach scouts about the basics of car maintenance and repair. Scouts will learn how to identify and fix common problems that can occur with cars, as well as how to keep their own vehicles running smoothly.

Merit Badge Requirements

1. Do the following:
   1. Explain how an internal combustion engine works.
   2. Describe the differences between a gasoline engine and a diesel engine.
   3. Describe how to troubleshoot and repair an engine that will not start.
2. Do the following:
   1. Explain how to check the oil level and tire pressure of a vehicle.
   2. Explain how to check the coolant level and the brake fluid level of a vehicle.
   3. Explain how to change a tire.
3. Do the following:
   1. Explain the purpose and function of the following parts of an automobile: battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, fuel system, cooling system, transmission, and brakes.
   2. Explain how to check the condition and level of the following: battery, radiator, belts, hoses, and brake pads.
4. Do the following:
   1. Explain the safety precautions you must take when working on a vehicle.
   2. Explain how to safely jump-start a dead battery.
   3. Explain how to safely use jumper cables.
5. Do the following:
   1. Explain the purpose and function of the following tools: jack, lug wrench, pliers, screwdriver, and socket wrench.
   2. Explain how to safely use each of the tools listed in requirement 5a.
6. Do the following:
   1. Explain the purpose and function of the following automotive fluids: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and automatic transmission fluid.
   2. Explain how to check the level and condition of each of the fluids listed in requirement 6a.
7. Do the following:
   1. Explain the purpose and function of the following automotive filters: oil filter, air filter, fuel filter, and cabin air filter.
   2. Explain how to check the condition and replace each of the filters listed in requirement 7a.

Lesson

Hey there, scouts! Are you ready to learn about automotive maintenance? Great! Let's get started.

First things first, let's talk about how an internal combustion engine works. Basically, an engine takes fuel and air, mixes them together, and ignites them to create energy that moves the car. Gasoline engines and diesel engines work a little differently, but they both use this basic principle to get the job done.

Now, let's say you're trying to start your car and it just won't turn over. What could be the problem? Well, it could be a lot of things, but some common culprits are a dead battery, a bad starter, or a clogged fuel filter. Can you think of any other reasons why a car might not start?

Okay, let's move on to checking the oil level and tire pressure of a vehicle. Why is it important to do this regularly? Well, if your oil level is too low, your engine could seize up and stop working. And if your tire pressure is too low, you could have trouble steering and braking. So, always make sure to check these things before you hit the road.

Now, let's talk about some of the tools you'll need for basic car maintenance. You'll definitely need a jack, a lug wrench, and a socket wrench. Can you think of any other tools that might come in handy?

Finally, let's talk about automotive fluids and filters. You'll need to know how to check the levels and conditions of things like engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. And you'll also need to know how to replace filters like the oil filter and air filter. It might sound complicated, but with a little practice, you'll be a pro in no time!

Questions

• What are some common reasons why a car might not start?
• Why is it important to check the oil level and tire pressure of a vehicle?
• What tools do you need for basic car maintenance?
• What are some of the automotive fluids and filters you need to know about?

Remember, if you have any questions or need help completing this merit badge, be sure to talk to your merit badge counselor. Good luck!

Schedule

Week	Requirements
1	Requirements 1a, 1b, and 1c
2	Requirements 2a, 2b, and 2c
3	Requirements 3a, 3b, and 4a
4	Requirements 4b and 4c
5	Requirements 5a and 5b
6	Requirements 6a and 6b
7	Requirements 7a and 7b