From Headlights to Taillights: Preparing for Summer Travel

By Mark Kozemko ’79, Johnson College’s Automotive Technology Program Director

Original published in the July 23, 2021 edition of the Valley Advantage.

https://www.thevalleyadvantage.com/community-columns/from-headlights-to-taillights-preparing-for-summer-travel/article_ada5ef18-e4fa-5a89-ba64-d81265ceadf6.html

Last month, we answered questions about what items to pack into a car care survival kit you’d take with you on a drive-away vacation. According to the response we received, it looks like you still have a few questions about getting your vehicle ready for summer travel. This month, we’ll cover some of the more specific questions we received over the past few weeks. Let’s get started.

Our first question is, “I don’t travel except for our annual vacation to the shore. Over the past three vacations, we used the same vehicle. Why is my fuel mileage different every year?”

There are several reasons your fuel mileage varies from year to year with the same vehicle.

First, I hope you’re performing a pre-travel inspection on your vehicle, including tire condition and air pressure, oil condition and level, transmission fluid condition and status and more.

If you are not performing that inspection, I highly recommend you do. Improper tire pressure alone can reduce fuel mileage significantly. Old or incorrect engine oil can lose its ability to lubricate correctly, causing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. The same goes for transmission fluid. If the transmission is not shifting correctly, your fuel mileage may decrease. The bottom line is, make sure all your fluids are up to par before you travel.

Second, road conditions can factor in your vehicle’s ability to get the most miles from a gallon of fuel. The friction between the road surface and the tire can cause unnecessary drag and make the engine work harder. The constant stopping and starting in construction areas also factors into decreased fuel mileage.

Third, driving habits are a huge factor in getting good to excellent fuel mileage. The more you follow posted speed limits and start from a stop, smoothly, you will see an increase in your fuel mileage.

For example, I recently purchased a new truck — used, but new to me. It has an eight-cylinder engine, as did my old truck, but slightly bigger. My old truck got a whopping 11-12 miles per gallon with my driving habits. With the same driving habits, mostly highway driving, the new truck consistently gets about 3-4 mpg better. When I drive to and from work, 20 miles each way, through the small cities and towns, follow speed limits and don’t push my engine to outperform itself, the truck is getting just under 20 mpg, which is a lot better than the 11-12 mpg I was getting with my old truck.

If you are a seasoned driver, you may ask yourself, isn’t highway mileage supposed to be more than city mileage? It’s written on vehicle window stickers that way. The fact is, newer models have engine and transmission options designed to, if driven correctly, increase fuel mileage.

“Why does my air conditioning cut out when I accelerate?” is our second question.

More than likely, this issue is a cracked or broken vacuum line to your heating, ventilation and air conditioning control unit. If you pay close attention when your air conditioning cuts out, you’ll notice it doesn’t really cut out. The airflow changes direction. It may be redirected to the floor or defroster vents.

This redirection happens because when you accelerate, you decrease the vacuum that your engine creates. When you reach cruising speed, or let up a bit on the accelerator pedal, you’ll probably notice the airflow returns to the dashboard vents.

You can self-diagnose this issue if you’re a Mr. or Ms. Fix It, or, you can have your repair garage look into it. Newer vehicles have electronic controls that virtually eliminate this issue. Of course, other things can go wrong in these systems, so keep your eyes on them.

Our third and last question of the month is “How do I know the correct tire pressure for my vehicle?”

Usually, the manufacturer puts a sticker in the driver’s door jamb that indicates the correct tire pressure. If you don’t see it there, it may be stuck to the fuel door or in the fuel filler neck area. If a tire pressure sticker is not on your vehicle, the best thing to do is to google the make and model of your vehicle to find out proper tire pressure. Whatever you do, DO NOT fill to the maximum pressure found on the tire itself. It is not the correct operating pressure and may cause a dangerous situation. Go by what is listed on the sticker, not the tire itself.

I hope everyone enjoys the rest of the summer. Drive sensibly and stay safe.

Now Enrolling Students from Wayne, Pike and Susquehanna Counties into Free Distance Learning Program

Johnson College is now enrolling students for its new free Distance Learning Program. This remote education program for high school and adult students in the rural areas of Wayne, Pike, and Susquehanna counties launches on August 30, 2021.  It creates a direct route for students to complete any of Johnson College’s 15 academic programs and ultimately a fulfilling career with family-sustaining wages while staying in their communities. To learn more about this program or to register for courses listed below, please visit Johnson.edu/usda-registration or email the Johnson College enrollment team at enroll@johnson.edu.

Students will have interactive, two-way access to Johnson College faculty and participate in remote education, discussions, testing, and skill demonstrations via high-tech telecommunications equipment in classrooms at Forest City Regional High School, Honesdale High School, Wallenpaupack Area High School, and Western Wayne High School. In addition, Lakeville Library, Newfoundland Library, and Pleasant Mount Library will be equipped with laptops to give community residents access to career exploration services and information about courses at Johnson College. 

In addition to the distance learning opportunity this program provides, students will have access to Johnson College’s full array of on-campus support services including tutoring, counseling, career services, financial aid, internship opportunities, and exposure to industry from day one. Distance learning will help high school and adult students reach their full potential and connect with the region’s essential careers already in demand.

This program is funded in part by a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program. 

Courses available through Honesdale High School

ART 101-1-Blueprint Reading for Welders – Wednesdays and Fridays, 4 p.m. – 4:50 p.m.

MAT 100-1- Math for Welders – Thursdays, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

BTT 149-4 – Construction Safety – Mondays, 5 p.m. – 6:50 p.m.

MAT 123-1 – Math for Carpenters – Thursdays, 4 p.m. – 4:50 p.m.

ART 110-4 – Contract Drawings – Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Courses available through Wallenpaupack Area High School

CIT 181 – 1 – Computer Hardware and Operating System – Online, available anytime

CIT 182 – 2 – Computer Hardware and Operating System Lab – Thursdays, 7 p.m. – 8:50 p.m.

CIT 183 – 1 – Network Architectures, Principles, and Protocols – Online, available anytime

CIT 184 – 3 – Network Architectures, Principles, and Protocols Lab – Wednesdays, 6 p.m. – 7:50 p.m.

PRG 101 – 2 – Programming for the Enterprise – Wednesdays, 3 p.m. – 5:50 p.m. 

Courses available through Western Wayne High School

VMR 151-2 – Introduction to Vehicle Maintenance – Wednesdays, 5 p.m. – 5:50 p.m. 

VMR 153-2 – Brake Systems – Tuesdays, 5 p.m. – 6:50 p.m.

VMR 154-3 – Brake Systems Lab – Tuesdays, 7 p.m. – 8:50 p.m.

VMR 155-3 – Steering & Suspensions – Thursdays, 5 p.m. – 6:50 p.m. 

VMR 156-3 – Steering & Suspensions Lab – Thursdays, 7 p.m. – 8:50 p.m.  

Courses available through Forest City Regional High School

ART 110-4 – Contract Drawings – Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

ADT 151-1 – Introduction to CAD – Online, available anytime 

ADT-152-2 – Introduction to CAD Lab – M-F, 11 a.m. – 12:06 p.m.

BUS 101-4 – Introduction to Business – Mondays, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Enroll Now in Fundamentals of Welding Class

Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program is currently enrolling students in its next Fundamentals of Welding class, scheduled for September on its campus in Scranton. Space is very limited.

Students will learn the basics of the major welding processes. After fundamentals, students can enroll in an intermediate class in either Shielded Metal Arc Welding (Stick), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (TIG), or Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG). Each of these classes works toward plate certification to a common welding code.

To learn more or enroll contact the Johnson College Continuing Education department at 570-702-8979, email continuinged@johnson.edu, or visit https://johnson.edu/continuingeducation/.

Next Pennsylvania State Vehicle Safety Inspectors Course Starts August 24

Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program will be holding a Pennsylvania State Vehicle Safety Inspectors course on campus on August 24, 26, 31, and September 2, 2021, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Space is limited. The total cost of the course is $200 for cars and light trucks. There is an additional $75 fee for other vehicle categories. To learn more or enroll, visit johnson.edu/continuingeducation or contact the Continuing Education Department at 570-702-8979 or continuinged@johnson.edu. 

The Pennsylvania State Vehicle Safety Inspection course requirements include 12 classroom hours, a written test, and a two-hour tactile test scheduled independently with the instructor. Students must complete all requirements before receiving certification from PennDOT. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis according to the date of payment. Class size is limited to 20 students, so participants are encouraged to register early. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid operator’s license for each class of vehicle they intend to inspect. Classes will be held in the Automotive Center of the Weaver Building on the Johnson College campus.

Innovation and Creation Camp for 7th, 8th, and 9th Grade Future Inventors

Johnson College offers a 1-week Innovation and Creation Camp for 7th, 8th, and 9th-grade students from Monday, August 16, 2021, to Friday, August 20, 2021, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the Johnson College campus in Scranton, PA. The cost of the camp is $50 per student, and space is limited.

Students will utilize problem-solving and critical thinking skills while learning about the latest robotics and STEM technologies. They will start camp as a passive user of technology but finish as experienced inventors.

For more information and to register, email Tim Frank, Academic Program Specialist at Johnson College, at tfrank@johnson.edu.

Now Offering Professional Automotive and College Experience Program to High School Students Enrolled in OVR

Johnson College is offering an Automotive industry-driven career exploration experience to high school students enrolled in the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). This program will be held from July 26 through August 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Johnson College campus and industry partner locations. Students will have an opportunity to dive into a college experience and develop skills to prepare them for success on and off a college campus. They will also receive exposure to the automotive industry through a paid internship program.  

The second week of the program will run from 9 a.m. to noon and will take place at different industry partner locations allow students to shadow local automotive industries and gain first-hand knowledge and experience.

For more information and to register, email Tim Frank, Academic Program Specialist at Johnson College, at tfrank@johnson.edu. This event is free for students enrolled in the OVR program.

Now Offering Immersive College Experience Program to Office of Vocational Rehabilitation High School Students

Johnson College is offering an Immersive College Experience to high school students enrolled in the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). This program will be held from July 26 through July 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Johnson College campus. Students will gain knowledge about the college application process, financial aid, how to succeed on and off a college campus, and will participate in STEM activities.

The interactive STEM activities will provide a learning experience that fosters creativity while teaching invaluable technical skills. They will include an introduction to programming, robotics, coding, and other aspects of STEM.

For more information and to register, email Tim Frank, Academic Program Specialist at Johnson College at tfrank@johnson.edu. This event is free for students enrolled in the OVR program.

Johnson College in Conjunction with Don’s Machine Shop brings CNC training to Luzerne County

Johnson College in conjunction with Don’s Machine Shop in West Pittston continues to bring Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machining training to Luzerne County. Starting August 23, 2021 students will train to utilize, maintain and program Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines inside Don’s Machine Shop’s classroom and lab at 100 Elm Street, West Pittston.

Open enrollment for this 510 Hour CNC class is going on now. Space is limited. Financial assistance may be available. Contact our Continuing Education Department at 570-702-8979 or continuinged@johnson.edu to find out if you qualify. Learn more visit https://johnson.edu/continuing-education/510-computer-numerical-control-cnc-at-dons-machine-shop/.

CNC machinists manufacture precision products and components used in a variety of applications such as automotive, medical, electronics, aerospace, transportation, military, and more. Industries throughout northeastern Pennsylvania are currently in need of well-trained CNC machinists.

This 510 hour class for beginner-level students includes theory and hands-on learning experiences. The hands-on training, delivered at Don’s Machine Shop, is on some of the most state-of-the-art equipment in the region. This unique, one-of-a-kind training will help open up new career opportunities right away. This relationship truly demonstrates how industry is a Johnson College student’s campus. Social distancing and mask guidelines will be followed at all times. The cost of the class is $7,500. Financial assistance may be available for those who qualify.

Since starting over 30 years ago Don’s Machine Shop, Inc. has grown to be one of the largest machine shops in Pennsylvania’s Wyoming Valley. Their 77,000 square foot climate-controlled facility contains millions of dollars’ worth of modern equipment that are continually upgraded. Don’s Machine Shop, Inc. employs 30 people and makes machine parts for companies around the globe. Many things have changed since this business started over 30 years ago, but their commitment to providing quality parts and service will never change. For more information visit http://www.donsmachine.com/.

Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program distinguishes itself from the College’s 2-year degree programs and certificate courses by providing its adult students the opportunity to improve their skills to stay ahead of the competition, learn new technologies, and advance in their current careers. The Continuing Education courses, many taught by industry professionals, are utilized and recognized by industry partners because they’re developed in partnership with industry. Johnson College strategizes with and listens to its partners when creating the most effective hands-on continuing education curriculum and programs. Some courses are specifically customized toward industry partners’ workforce needs in reducing possible skills gaps and industry requirements. The program also includes pre-employment skills testing and exclusive online courses offering certification classes for essential industries. Johnson College also assists individual students and industry partners in obtaining funding or grants so their continuing education courses are cost-effective. Students continuing in their current jobs, obtain hands-on advanced training, new certifications, and unique skills to expand their careers while helping their companies grow. Students entering a new career have an opportunity, through newly acquired core skills, to excel in training and job placement when hired in the industry they’re passionate about. Johnson College trains the workforce of northeastern Pennsylvania by immersing our continuing education, degree, and certificate-earning students in industry from day one. Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program carries on the College’s long history of producing the most highly skilled technicians and technologists by providing flexible, real-world hands-on learning and a direct link to industry. Individuals explore new careers while industry partners strengthen their current workforce. We Work, so the students succeed. For additional information on Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program, please call 570-702-8979, email continuinged@johnson.edu, or visit Johnson.edu/continuing-education.

Photo Caption:

Logan Keating (left) and David Cikota (right) train to utilize, maintain and program Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines at Don’s Machine Shop in West Pittston during Johnson College’s 510-Hour CNC Machining training class. Open enrollment for the next 510-Hour CNC Machining class at Don’s Machine Shop is going on now. The next class starts August 23, 2021, and space is limited. To learn more and enroll, contact the Johnson College Continuing Education Department at 570-702-8979 or continuinged@johnson.edu.  

Now Enrolling Students for 285-Hour Computer Numerical Control Training

Johnson College’s Continuing Education Program is now enrolling students in its next 285-hour Computer Numerical Control Operator training scheduled to begin on Monday, July 19, 2021, on the Johnson College campus in Scranton. The total cost of the 285-hour training is $3,950 and payment options are available. For more information or to register, visit https://johnson.edu/continuingeducation/ or contact Johnson College’s Continuing Education department at 570-702-8979 or continuinged@johnson.edu.

This 285-hour Computer Numerical Control Operator certificate program is designed for individuals looking to enter the high-demand machining field. The training covers theory and hands-on practice of both conventional and computer machining operations.  The course also covers shop and machine safety, blueprint reading, measuring instrument care and use, as well as math.