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August 2nd, 3rd and 4th, 2024
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To be able to complete a merit badge during Pathways to Eagle the preparation work MUST be completed BEFORE and turned in at the START of the merit badge session.

 

Due to the shortness of the sessions, teaching is not possible. The Scout needs to have read the merit badge pamphlet BEFORE the session and be prepared for each of the requirements.

 

The availability of a Merit Badge session will be based on the actual availability of Merit Badge counselors on the day of the event.

Automotive Maintenance   Automotive Maintenance     Automotive Maintenance

This Merit Badge requires 2 sessions to complete.

The Pathways to Eagle preparation work items for the Automotive Maintenance merit badge are: 5,  7,  8,  9,  10,  11,  12

  • Items in RED - MUST be completed before the session starts to make it possible to complete the merit badge at Pathways to Eagle. Bring proof of completion (item, written work, note, photo, etc.)
  • Items in GREEN - Can be completed before the session starts or done during merit badge session.
  • Items in BLACK - MUST be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of these requirements during the merit badge session.
Scouts are strongly encouraged to use a Merit Badge worksheet to show that they have done the preparation work for the merit badge. Download the workbook for the Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge in Adobe PDF format from the U.S. Scouting Service Project website.
Scouts MUST be able to discuss any items completed as preparation works or as written work. Note: Some requirements contain items that fall into more that one category and are listed as the higher category.
 
NOTE: You will need access to a car or truck and its owner's manual to meet some of the requirements for this merit badge. Vehicles and owners manuals will be provided.
 
1. 
 
Do the following:
a.  Explain to your counselor the hazards you are most likely to encounter during automotive maintenance activities, and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, or lessen these hazards.
b.  Discuss with your counselor the safety equipment, tools, and clothing used while checking or repairing a motor vehicle. Use this equipment, tools, and/or clothing (when needed or called for) in meeting the requirements for this merit badge.
 
2. 
 
General Maintenance, Safety, and Registration. Do the following:
a.  Review the maintenance chart in the owner's manual. Explain the requirements and time limits.
b.  Demonstrate how to check the following:
1.  Brake Fluid
2.  Engine Oil
3.  Coolant
4.  Power steering fluid
5.  Windshield washer fluid
6.  Transmission fluid
7.  Battery fluid (if possible) and condition of the battery terminals
c.  Locate the fuse boxes; determine the type and size of fuses. Demonstrate the proper replacement of burned-out fuses.
d.  Demonstrate how to check the condition and tension of belts and hoses.
e.  Check the vehicle for proper operation of its lights, including the interior overhead lights, instrument lights, warning lights, and exterior bulbs.
f.  Locate and check the air filter(s).
g.  Explain the purpose, importance, and limitations of safety belts and passive restraints.
h.  Find out the requirements for your state's emissions and safety inspections (as applicable), including how often a vehicle needs to be inspected.
i.  Explain the importance of registering a vehicle and find out the annual registration fee for renewing your family car's registration.
 
3. 
 
Dashboard. Do the following:
a.  Explain the function of the fuel gauge, speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, and engine temperature gauge. Point out each one on the instrument cluster.
b.  Explain the symbols that light up on the dashboard and the difference between the yellow and red symbols. Explain each of the indicators on the dashboard, using the owner's manual if necessary.
 
4. 
 
Tires. Do the following:
a.  Explain the difference between tire manufacturer's and vehicle manufacturer's specifications and show where to find them.
b.  Demonstrate how to check pressure and properly inflate a tire. Check the spare tire and make sure it is ready for use.
c.  Explain why wheel alignment is important to the life of a tire. Explain caster, camber, and toe-in adjustments on wheel alignment.
d.  Explain the purpose of the lateral-wear bar indicator.
e.  Explain how to dispose of old tires in accordance with local laws and regulations.
 
5. 
 
Engine. Do the following:
a.  Explain how an internal combustion engine operates. Tell the differences between gasoline and diesel engines. Explain how a gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle is powered.
b.  Discuss the purpose of engine oil. Explain the API service code, the SAE number, and the viscosity rating.
c.  Explain where to find the recommended oil type and the amount of oil to be used in the vehicle's engine.
 
6. 
 
Cooling system. Do the following:
a.  Explain the need for coolant in the cooling system, and the importance of selecting the correct coolant type for a given vehicle.
b.  Explain how to flush and change the engine coolant in the vehicle , and how to properly dispose of the used coolant.
 
7. 
 
Fuel system. Do the following:
a.  Explain how the air and fuel systems work together and why it is necessary to have an air filter and fuel filter.
b.  Explain how a how a fuel injection system works and how an on-board computer works with the fuel injection system.
 
8. 
 
Ignition and electrical systems. Do the following:
a.  Diagram and explain the parts of the electrical system.
b.  Explain the engine's firing order.
c.  Explain the purpose of the spark gap.
d.  Demonstrate how to safely connect jumper cables to your car battery.
 
9. 
 
Drive Train. Do the following:
a.  Diagram the drive train and explain the different parts.
b.  Explain the difference between automatic and standard transmissions.
c.  Explain the types of automatic transmission fluid.
d.  Explain the types of lubricants used in a standard transmission, and in the differential and transfer case.
e.  Explain the difference between front-wheel, rear- wheel, and four-wheel drive.
 
10. 
 
Brake System. Do the following:
a.  Explain the brake system (including anti-lock systems) and how it operates.
b.  Explain the differences between disc and drum systems.
c.  Demonstrate how to check the condition of a vehicle's brake system. After checking make recommendations for repairs (if necessary).
 
11. 
 
Do TWO of the following:
a.  Determine the value of three different vehicles you are interested in purchasing. One must be new and one must be used; the third vehicle can be new or used. For each vehicle, find out the requirements and cost of automobile insurance to include basic liability and options for collision, comprehensive, towing, and rental car. Using the three vehicles you chose and with your merit badge counselor's assistance, complete the operation/maintenance chart provided in the merit badge pamphlet. Use this information to determine the operating cost per mile for each vehicle, and discuss what you learn with your counselor.
b.  Choose a car cleaner and wax product for a vehicle you want to clean. Explain clear-coat paint and the precautions necessary for care. Clean the vehicle, both inside and out, and wax the exterior. Use a vinyl and rubber protectant (on vinyl tops, rubber door seals, sidewalls, etc.) and explain the importance of the protectant.
c.  Locate the manufacturer's jack. Use the jack to demonstrate how to engage the jack correctly on the vehicle, then change a tire correctly.
d.  Perform an oil filter and oil change on a vehicle. Explain how to properly dispose of the used oil and filter.
 
12. 
 
Find out about three career opportunities in the automotive industry. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.
 
The requirements listed on this web site are believed to be correct.
The official requirements can be found in the current edition of
"Boy Scout Requirements Book 2024"

Download the workbook for the Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge
in Adobe PDF format from, The U.S. Scouting Service Project website.

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