AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING & COMPUTER SCIENCE

DEPARTMENT OF MECHATRONICS ENGINEERING

PRACTICAL ENGINEERING TRAINING

Vehicle Technical Support

Beirut, Lebanon
31/12/2024
 Preface
This report details my internship experience at Rymco, a leading car company in
Lebanon. The training aimed to provide hands-on experience in automotive mechanics,
enhancing my understanding of vehicle systems, troubleshooting techniques, and
maintenance procedures. This internship has been an invaluable learning experience,
providing practical skills that complement my theoretical studies in mechatronics
engineering.

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 Acknowledgements

I would like to place on record my deep gratitude to Mrs Nagham, (Head Engineer), for
his generous guidance, help and useful suggestions.

I express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Charbel, Team Lead, for his stimulating guidance,
and continuous encouragement.

I also wish to extend my thanks to Mr Awad(Head Technician) and other workers for
their guidance and for providing me with the knowledge related to IT support.

I am extremely thankful to Mrs. Jerry, for her valuable suggestions and encouragement.
(In addition to any instructor who helped in the training session)

The author would like to express his utmost gratitude to (Rymco) for providing me with
the opportunity to pursue the engineering training as a partial fulfillment of the
requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Science.

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 Table of Contents

Preface...............................................................................................................................................ii
Acknowledgements..........................................................................................................................iii
Table of Contents..............................................................................................................................iv
List of Figures....................................................................................................................................v
List of Symbols and Abbreviations.................................................................................................vii
I. Introduction...............................................................................................................................1
II. Training Organization...............................................................................................................1
III. Training Description.................................................................................................................2
A. Training Timeline.................................................................................................................2
B. Training Objectives..............................................................................................................2
C. Tasks Carried Out by the Trainee........................................................................................2
D. Applications of Theory and Soft Skills..................................................................................3
E. Challenges Encountered and their Solutions.......................................................................7
F. Training Outcomes..............................................................................................................7
IV. Discussion and Conclusions......................................................................................................7
References........................................................................................................................................9
Appendix A.....................................................................................................................................10

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 List of Figures

Figure 1 Changing brakes................................................................................................................4

Figure 2 application of scanner.......................................................................................................5
Figure 3 engine replacement and assembly....................................................................................6

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 List of Symbols and Abbreviations

ECU: Electronic Control Unit

ABS: Anti-lock Braking System

HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

RPM: Revolutions Per Minute

OBD: On-Board Diagnostics

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 I. Introduction

I was fully involved in the automotive mechanics field during my internship at Rymco,
with a particular emphasis on hands-on vehicle maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs. I
gained skills necessary for a future in automotive engineering thanks to this program,
which helped close the knowledge gap between academia and practical applications. I
worked on a range of projects for 160 hours, from simple inspections to intricate
troubleshooting and repairs, which gave me the opportunity to learn about many facets of
auto mechanics. The context for a thorough description of my experience and lessons
learned is established by this introduction.

II. Training Organization

The Lebanese company Rymco is well known for its dedication to providing high-quality
vehicle services. The company's customer is varied and includes both fleet operators and
private automobile owners. The staff at Rymco is able to offer complete auto maintenance
and repair services since their workshops are furnished with cutting-edge equipment.
Because of its focus on quality and client happiness, the company has been known as a
leader in the automobile industry.

Technical services, marketing, sales, and finance are among the departments that make up
the organization. During my internship, I mostly worked with the technical services
department, collaborating with seasoned engineers and mechanics. The department's
primary functions include mechanical and electrical repairs, routine maintenance, and
vehicle diagnostics, all of which are intended to guarantee the best possible vehicle
performance.

Rymco creates a learning atmosphere for trainees. After being accepted into the team, I
had the chance to watch, take part, and finally take charge of some duties while being
closely watched. My technical knowledge was broadened by this experience, and it also
improved my comprehension of the dynamics of a professional workplace.

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III. Training Description

A. Training Timeline
The internship spanned four weeks, from 2/9/2024 to 1/12/2024, with a total of 160
hours. Each week was allocated to specific learning objectives, ensuring a comprehensive
understanding of automotive mechanics.

B. Training Objectives
The internship's main goals were to give me automotive repair experience and a deeper
comprehension of car systems. The course was designed to enhance my academic
background by emphasizing a number of important topics.

Developing diagnostic abilities by locating electrical and mechanical issues in different

car systems was one of the primary objectives. This required being proficient in the use of
sophisticated diagnostic instruments and deciphering the information they offered.
Getting practical knowledge in car maintenance and repair was another important goal.
This covered both standard maintenance like oil changes and brake pad replacements as
well as more involved fixes like HVAC system maintenance and wiring repairs.

The internship also aimed to improve my interpersonal and communication abilities. In

order to comprehend the significance of effective communication and collaboration in a
professional context, it was essential to interact with team members. Last but not least,
the training aimed to strengthen my problem-solving skills, particularly when dealing
with unforeseen difficulties during diagnostics or repairs.

C. Tasks Carried Out by the Trainee

Trainees should start their internship with core duties to get a feel for the workplace,
equipment, and fundamental processes. These beginning duties will give students a good
grasp of how the work runs on a daily basis and lay the groundwork for more difficult
assignments in the future. Trainees should gradually take on increasingly difficult
assignments that test their expanding skill set as they show confidence and proficiency in
these fundamental duties.

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Trainees should be exposed to a variety of technical roles throughout the internship to
gain a deeper understanding of how various systems and processes interact. This will
improve their problem-solving skills and help them understand how the tasks at hand are
interconnected. In order to improve their practical abilities and apply the theoretical
knowledge they have learned, they must to be encouraged to help with a range of
technical tasks. Participating in these activities will provide trainees the chance to learn
about the inner workings of the automotive industry and how various components work
together to guarantee seamless operations.

By the time their internship is up, trainees should be able to perform both basic and
complex auto maintenance, such as changing tires and oil, assembling motors, and fixing
electrical systems. They ought to be able to accurately diagnose and identify problems
utilizing diagnostic tools. Additionally, trainees should have expertise talking with clients
and properly communicating technical difficulties, as well as doing post-maintenance
testing to make sure vehicles are road-ready. They should also help keep the workspace
neat and orderly, making sure that tools and replacement parts are handled effectively.
Trainees should have a thorough awareness of the duties associated with the vehicle
repair sector by the end of the internship.

D. Applications of Theory and Soft Skills

In relation to my first assignments, which included tire rotation and oil changes, I learned
the basic vehicle maintenance procedures. I learned how to use particular programs
efficiently and how to take a methodical approach to guarantee accuracy thanks to these
jobs. I initially struggled to keep track of all the stages necessary, but I was able to

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perform these jobs with ease by planning my work and paying great attention to the
procedures. I gained discipline and attention to detail from this, two qualities that are
critical for any technical position.

Figure 1 Changing brakes

As I progressed to more intricate fixes, including changing the AC filters and spark plugs,
I used my understanding of mechanical systems to comprehend how these parts work
together within the car. I gained a better understanding of the engine's ignition system and
how minor components affect the vehicle's overall performance, for instance, by changing
the spark plugs. I was able to understand previously learned ideas in a real-world setting
thanks to this practical application of academic knowledge.
Working on maintenance and motor assembly projects gave me a deeper comprehension

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of vehicle systems. Building an automobile from the ground up allowed me to observe the
complex relationships between its parts. .

During my internship, using the scanner was a crucial learning experience. For example, I
used the scanner to find the issue when repairing the crankshaft sensor. Even if the
scanner gave an inaccurate readout, displaying the information and conducting additional
research presented the true difficulty. I learned the value of critical thinking and
perseverance in problem-solving when I realized that a bent pin was the source of the
sensor issue. I learned from this experience that theoretical concepts could direct real-
world debugging.

Figure 2 application of scanner

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Figure 3 engine replacement and assembly

I also successfully used soft skills when interacting with customers. For instance, I had to
clarify difficult ideas and make them understandable to the client while describing
technical problems, such the causes of a car's overheating. In addition to fostering trust,
this improved my capacity for professional and straightforward
communication.

Last but not least, organizing duties like keeping the workshop tidy and controlling
inventory helped me understand the value of productivity and preparation. Time was
saved by keeping the workspace neat and orderly, which also guaranteed safety and made
it simpler to locate equipment and parts. I was able to comprehend the logistics part of car
mechanics, which is equally as important as the technical aspects, by managing inventory.

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E. Challenges Encountered and their Solutions
One of the difficulties encountered during this internship was a regular inspection of an
automobile that the customer claimed was not starting. We therefore began testing
components that were connected to the problem, such as spark plugs, a malfunctioning
battery, sensors, and others, starting with the basic information provided. After examining
every possibility, we determined that the problem was being caused by a malfunctioning
crank shaft sensor. However, the problem persisted even after changing the sensor. We
believed that the original theory was incorrect and that there was another cause for the
problem. We did, however, test every possible connection to the problem After
examination, it was discovered that the pins used to connect to the sensor were bent,
indicating that the sensor had been installed incorrectly. Even after replacing it, the output
would not change, so after beginning the pin, the car switched on normally.

F. Training Outcomes
During my internship, every work I completed made a good contribution to my
developmen not just in terms of technical proficiency but also in terms of my personal
and professional progress. I approached every task with attention and accuracy, whether
it included straightforward oil changes or intricate troubleshooting. I took pride in my
work and made sure that every task I finished was great . I was tenacious when I made
mistakes, going over the work again until it was perfect. I was inspired to learn more and
become an expert in my field throughout my schooling because of this resilient and
determined mindset.Being able to adjust and pick things up fast was one of the most
important lessons I learned.. I found that I could achieve excellence and strive for
perfection when I was enthusiastic and dedicated to my profession. For instance, I never
accept half fixes when fixing a car or diagnosing a problem. Before finishing the
maintnance completed, I would carefully test and double-check my work to make sure
everything was completely working. My attention to detail also extended to appearance,
as I made sure the cables I wired were well organized highlighting how crucial it is to
deliver high-quality work. I had trouble at first approaching and getting along with the
team I worked with. But by Having desire to learn, I progressively established myself as
a vital member of the group. I learned from this experience how important teamwork is.
As I grew more at ease, the assistance of my coworkers helped me even more. I received
a lot of practical experience, yet my capabilities were limited.

IV. Discussion and Conclusions

I got a thorough understanding of automotive systems and how they contribute to a

vehicle's overall operation by the end of my internship at Rymco. At first, I believed that
automobile repair was mostly about resolving obvious problems, but I soon discovered

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that it's also about comprehending how all the systems interact to make sure a car runs
well. I gained a thorough understanding of how the electrical and mechanical systems of
cars interact, from the engine to the sensors, and how this information relates to
maintenance and diagnostics. Additionally, I learned about a workshop's organizational
structure and how each department helps the business run smoothly. This realization
extended to understanding how car components reflect college-level academic topics.,
such as mechanical linkages and electrical connections. Observing how these elements
translate into real-world scenarios gave me a newfound appreciation for the engineering
field. Moreover, I became passionate about the process of diagnosing and repairing
vehicles, realizing how vital precision and dedication are in this profession. Each task,
whether replacing an engine or troubleshooting a crankshaft sensor issue, reinforced my
desire to learn more about automotive engineering and pursue excellence in the field.

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 References

[1] “About RYMCO | Nissan Lebanon,” Nissan, 2024.

https://en.nissanlebanon.com/corporate.html (accessed Dec. 31, 2024).

[2] Rymco.com, 2020. https://gmc.rymco.com/locations/rymco-showroom/

(accessed Dec. 31, 2024).

[3] R. Stone and J. K. Ball, Automotive Engineering Fundamentals. Warrendale,

PA: SAE International, 2004.

[4] T. Denton, Automobile Electrical and Electronic Systems, 5th ed. Abingdon,
UK: Routledge, 2017.

[5] J. D. Halderman, Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service, 6th

ed. Hoboken, NJ: Pearson, 2019.

[6] C. C. Chan, K. T. Chau, and S. D. Douglas, Modern Electric Vehicle

Technology. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press, 2001.

[7] D. A. Crolla, Automotive Engineering: Powertrain, Chassis System and

Vehicle Body. Oxford, UK: Butterworth-Heinemann, 2009.

[8] J. Heisler, Advanced Engine Performance Diagnosis, 6th ed. Hoboken, NJ:
Pearson, 2018.

[9] A. Emadi, Handbook of Automotive Power Electronics and Motor Drives.

Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 2005.

[10] J. G. Triggs, "Troubleshooting Automotive Sensors and Actuators," Journal

of Automotive Engineering, vol. 36, no. 5, pp. 450-461, May 2020.

[11] M. Ehsani, Y. Gao, and A. Emadi, Modern Electric, Hybrid Electric, and Fuel Cell
Vehicles: Fundamentals, Theory, and Design. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 2018.

[12] "On-board diagnostics (OBD): A brief overview," SAE International,

[Online]. Available: https://www.sae.org. [Accessed Dec. 30, 2024].

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 Appendix A

During the course of my internship at Rymco, I followed a structured weekly schedule

that progressively exposed me to various aspects of automotive mechanics. The first week
focused on an introduction to workshop safety, protocols, and basic maintenance routines.
This included tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and vehicle inspections.
These activities were essential for familiarizing myself with the tools and the general
workflow of the workshop. In the second week, I progressed to advanced diagnostics and
maintenance procedures. I used diagnostic tools like the OBD scanner to troubleshoot and
identify faults in vehicle systems. Tasks during this phase included replacing brake pads,
inspecting suspension systems, and performing routine inspections on electrical systems.
These activities required a more detailed understanding of the vehicles and allowed me to
apply theoretical knowledge from my academic studies.
The third week marked a transition to more complex repairs and motor assembly work. I
assisted in replacing engines and assembling vehicles from scratch, which provided a
comprehensive view of automotive systems and their interdependencies. This stage also
involved diagnosing and repairing intricate motor and transmission issues, which honed
my problem-solving skills.
The final week involved testing vehicles after maintenance to ensure they were road-
ready. This included taking vehicles for short test drives to evaluate their performance
and addressing any remaining issues. Additionally, I engaged in inventory management
and organizational tasks, ensuring the workshop remained efficient and operational.
Throughout the internship, I relied on key tools and equipment, including hydraulic jacks,
OBD scanners, torque wrenches, and multimeters. Each tool played a vital role in
performing diagnostics and repairs, and I became proficient in their use. For example, the
OBD scanner was instrumental in identifying faults like the crankshaft sensor issue,
where a bent pin caused incorrect readings.
This internship provided a holistic learning experience, allowing me to integrate
theoretical knowledge with practical application. It also emphasized the importance of
teamwork, communication, and organizational skills in a professional setting. The
challenges I faced and overcame during the training have prepared me for future roles in
the field of automotive engineering.

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11
Datasheet for IP Phones
(CISCO, 2021)

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