AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY RETAIL, SERVICE & REPAIR - part 27

Automotive Industry RS&R  

AURM4419A Test engines using a dynamometer 

©Australian National Training Authority 

 AUR99 Version 4.00 Review by 30 June 2004 

173 

 

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

Underpinning knowledge 
(continued) 

•  Procedures for reporting task completion 

•  OH&S policies and procedures 

Underpinning skills 

These include a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are 
required in most jobs. Some of these are covered by the national key competencies, although 
others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this 
competency unit. The number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency 
needs to be demonstrated where (1) is where work is within set conditions and process, (2) is 
where the management or facilitation of conditions or process is exercised, and (3) is where 
the design and/or development of conditions or process is required. 

How will the candidate 
apply the following key 
competency in this unit? 

The candidate will need to: 

Collect, analyse and 
organise information 

 

Collect, organise, understand and analyse information related to 
dynamometer test results, team requirements and safety 
procedures. 

 (Level 2)

Communicate ideas and 
information 

 

Communicate ideas and information to enable confirmation of 
work requirements, coordination of work with technical 
supervisors, other technicians and team members, and the 
reporting of work outcomes and problems. 

(Level 2)

Plan and organise 
activities 

 

Plan and organise activities including the preparation and 
layout of the work area and the obtaining of equipment and 
material to avoid any backtracking, workflow interruptions or 
wastage. 

(Level 2)

Work with others and in a 
team 

 

Work with others and in a team by recognising dependencies 
and using cooperative approaches to optimise workflow and 
productivity. 

(Level 2)

Use mathematical ideas 
and techniques 

 

Use mathematical ideas and techniques to correctly complete 
measurement of engine performance. 

(Level 2)

Solve problems 

 

Use dynamometer testing to solve problems with engine 
performance. 

(Level 2)

AURM4419A Test engines using a dynamometer  

Automotive Industry RS&R 

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AUR99 Version 4.00 Review by 30 June 2004 

©Australian National Training Authority 

 

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

Underpinning skills (continued) 

Use technology 

 

Use the workplace technology related to dynamometers 
including tools, equipment, calculators and measuring devices. 

(Level 2)

 

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

Resource implications 

•  Access to tools and equipment as identified in the Range 

Statement including engines, dynamometer and testing 
equipment and relevant technical references or information 

Method of assessment 

•  Assessment methods must confirm consistency of 

performance over time and in a range of workplace relevant 
contexts 

•  Assessment should be by direct observation of tasks and 

questioning on underpinning knowledge 

•  Assessment should be conducted over time and may be in 

conjunction with assessment of other units of competency 

Context/s of assessment 

•  Assessment may occur on the job or in a workplace 

simulated facility with relevant process equipment, material, 
work instructions and deadlines 

 

 

Automotive Industry RS&R  

AURM4420A Test suspension dampers using a dynamometer 

©Australian National Training Authority 

 AUR99 Version 4.00 Review by 30 June 2004 

175 

 

AURM4420A Test 

suspension dampers using a 

dynamometer 

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the competency to test suspension dampers 
using a dynamometer. This includes dynamometer set up, use 
of software relevant to the dynamometer, testing, data logging 
and analysis, devising strategies for improvement and 
dynamometer maintenance procedures. 

Prerequisites 

MEM2.13C5A    Perform mathematical computations 

MEM2.9C10A 

Perform computer operations 

 

ELEMENT PERFORMANCE 

CRITERIA 

1.  Prepare for 

dynamometer operation 

1.1 

Team instructions, category regulations and component 
supplier specifications are used to determine job 
requirements including design, quality, material, 
equipment, and specification 

1.2 

OH&S requirements including equipment and system 
isolation requirements and personal protection needs are 
observed throughout the work 

1.3 

Outcomes of dynamometer testing are determined and 
documented 

1.4 

Dynamometer is checked for calibration and 
serviceability and prepared for operation 

2.  Conduct dynamometer 

testing 

2.1 

Load and run sequence is determined and test parameters 
are determined/calculated/measured 

2.2 

Dampers are connected to dynamometer and damper 
security to the dynamometer is confirmed 

2.3 

The selected dynamometer testing sequence is performed 
in accordance with specifications and directions and/or 
the locally authorised method 

2.4 

Dynamometer test data is analysed and valid conclusions 
about damper condition and performance are made 

2.5 

Findings including recommendations for damper 
configuration and/or modifications to improve 
performance based on dynamometer data are reported to 
appropriate persons 

2.6 

Approved modifications are tested with confirmation 
run/s 

2.7 

Data is presented to appropriate team members as 
information to complement suspension setup 

AURM4420A Test suspension dampers using a dynamometer 

Automotive Industry RS&R 

176 

AUR99 Version 4.00 Review by 30 June 2004 

©Australian National Training Authority 

 

ELEMENT PERFORMANCE 

CRITERIA 

3.  Clean up work area and 

log test results 

3.1 

Dynamometer shutdown procedure is performed in 
accordance with manufacturer/component supplier 
requirements 

3.2 

Damper is disconnected from dynamometer 

3.3 

Dynamometer and associated tools and equipment are 
cleaned and refurbished 

3.4 

Operator level maintenance of dynamometer is conducted 

3.5 

Dynamometer test results are logged to create/add to 
damper history 

 

RANGE STATEMENT  

The Range Statement provides advice to interpret the scope and context of this unit of 
competency, allowing for differences between enterprises and workplaces. It relates to the unit 
as a whole and facilitates holistic assessment. The following variables may be present for this 
particular unit: 

Unit scope 

•  Work includes the use of a dynamometer to test suspension 

damper performance, the interpretation of dynamometer 
results in order to maximise damper performance for the 
motorsport/performance enhancement environment. This 
includes dynamometer set up, use of the software relevant 
to the dynamometer, data recording and dynamometer 
maintenance procedures 

•  Test parameters may include, but are not limited to: 

•  ambient and damper temperature 

•  damper stroke and frequency 

•  sample rates 

•  Units of measurements are to include metric and imperial 

units 

Unit context 

•  OH&S requirements include relevant state and 

commonwealth legislation, safety management systems, 
controlling body requirements, manufacturer/component 
supplier specifications and safe operating procedures 

•  Work is carried out in accordance with legislative 

obligations (including environmental requirements), 
relevant health regulations, manual handling procedures 
and insurance requirements  

Automotive Industry RS&R  

AURM4420A Test suspension dampers using a dynamometer 

©Australian National Training Authority 

 AUR99 Version 4.00 Review by 30 June 2004 

177 

 

RANGE STATEMENT  

Unit context (continued) 

•  Work requires individuals to demonstrate discretion, 

judgement and problem solving skills in the set-up and 
operation of machines 

•  Competency may be demonstrated in workplaces involved 

in the design, development, manufacture and maintenance 
of performance vehicles and/or performance vehicle 
components and assemblies used in motorsport 

Tools and equipment 

• 

Tools and equipment may include, but not be limited to, 
damper dynamometer, hand and power tools, diagnostic 
computer hardware and software 

Personal protective 
equipment 

 

• 

Personal protective equipment is to include that prescribed 
under dynamometer manufacturer/component supplier 
specifications, legislation, regulations and enterprise 
policies and practices 

Information and 
procedures 

•  Controlling body rules, category rules and supplementary 

regulations 

•  Team/enterprise procedures relating to testing suspension 

dampers using a dynamometer 

•  Task instructions including work sheets, check lists, plans, 

drawings and designs 

•  Team/enterprise procedures relating to reporting and 

communication 

•  Team/enterprise procedures relating to the use of tools and 

equipment 

•  Manufacturer/component supplier specifications and 

application procedures for testing equipment and material 

•  Australian Design Rules (where applicable) 

 

AURM4420A Test suspension dampers using a dynamometer 

Automotive Industry RS&R 

178 

AUR99 Version 4.00 Review by 30 June 2004 

©Australian National Training Authority 

 

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects, knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to 
confirm competency for this unit. This is an integral part of the assessment of competency and 
should be read in conjunction with the Range Statement. 

Critical aspects of 
evidence 

•  Interpret and apply team requirements, controlling body 

and category rules and supplementary regulations  

•  Correctly apply and use safety equipment and personal 

protective equipment 

•  Follow task instructions, operating procedures and 

inspection processes to:  

•  minimise the risk of injury to self and others 

•  prevent damage to competition vehicle or equipment 

•  achieve required outcomes within team time and quality 

standards 

•  Correctly set up, and operate a damper dynamometer to 

test a minimum of three (3) different dampers (of at least 
two (2) different types/brands) to complete the following: 

•  determine damper performance 

•  analyse damper performance data 

•  assess effect of damper changes and present to 

appropriate team members as information to 
complement suspension setup 

•  confirm effectiveness of damper set-up modifications 

•  Work effectively with others 

•  Modify activities to cater for variations in workplace 

context and environment 

Underpinning knowledge 

•  Suspension damper and dynamometer terminology 

•  Preparation procedure for dynamometer testing 

•  Dynamometer operation and use of associated hardware 

and software 

•  Test environment correction factors 

•  Dynamometer data interpretation and analysis 

•  Damper modification and adjustment procedures 

Automotive Industry RS&R  

AURM4420A Test suspension dampers using a dynamometer 

©Australian National Training Authority 

 AUR99 Version 4.00 Review by 30 June 2004 

179 

 

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

underpinning knowledge 
(continued) 

•  Operator level dynamometer maintenance 

•  Procedures for reporting task completion 

•  OH&S policies and procedures 

Underpinning skills 

These include a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are 
required in most jobs. Some of these are covered by the national key competencies, although 
others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this 
competency unit. The number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency 
needs to be demonstrated where (1) is where work is within set conditions and process, (2) is 
where the management or facilitation of conditions or process is exercised, and (3) is where 
the design and/or development of conditions or process is required. 

How will the candidate 
apply the following key 
competency in this unit? 

The candidate will need to: 

Collect, analyse and 
organise information 

 

Collect, organise, understand and analyse information related to 
dynamometer test results, team requirements and safety 
procedures. 

 (Level 2)

Communicate ideas and 
information 

 

Communicate ideas and information to enable confirmation of 
work requirements, coordination of work with technical 
supervisors, other technicians and team members, and the 
reporting of work outcomes and problems. 

(Level 2)

Plan and organise 
activities 

 

Plan and organise activities including the preparation and layout 
of the work area and the obtaining of equipment and material to 
avoid any backtracking, workflow interruptions or wastage. 

(Level 2)

Work with others and in 
a team 

 

Work with others and in a team by recognising dependencies and 
using cooperative approaches to optimise workflow and 
productivity. 

(Level 2)

Use mathematical ideas 
and techniques 

 

Use mathematical ideas and techniques to correctly complete 
measurement of suspension damper performance. 

(Level 2)

Solve problems 

 

Use pre-checking and inspection techniques to anticipate test 
problems, in order to work efficiently and effectively. 

(Level 2)

AURM4420A Test suspension dampers using a dynamometer 

Automotive Industry RS&R 

180 

AUR99 Version 4.00 Review by 30 June 2004 

©Australian National Training Authority 

 

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

Underpinning skills (continued) 

Use technology 

 

Use the workplace technology related to dynamometers 
including associated software and hardware, tools, equipment, 
calculators and measuring devices. 

(Level 2)

 

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

 

Resource implications 

•  Access to tools and equipment as identified in the Range 

Statement, dampers, dynamometer and testing equipment 
and relevant technical references or information 

Method of assessment 

•  Assessment methods must confirm consistency of 

performance over time and in a range of workplace relevant 
contexts 

•  Assessment should be by direct observation of tasks and 

questioning on underpinning knowledge 

•  Assessment should be conducted over time and may be in 

conjunction with assessment of other units of competency 

Context/s of assessment 

•  Assessment may occur on the job or in a workplace 

simulated facility with relevant process equipment, material, 
work instructions and deadlines