Mechanic Activity Badge

Alternative A - motor car

1. Know the principles of operation of an internal combustion engine and understand the function of the clutch, gearbox and rear axle differential.
   
2. Show how to check and refill the windscreen wash bottle of a car.
   
3. Show how to change a bulb at the front and in the rear light cluster of a car.
   
4. Show how to check the level of water in the radiator, 'top up' the radiator and know the importance of anti-freeze.
   
5. Show how to check tyre pressures and inflate a tyre correctly.
   
6. Remove and replace a road wheel.
   
7. Explain what to look for when checking that a tyre conforms to the legal requirement. Understand the reason why cross and radial ply tyres should not be mixed on the same axle.
   
8. Show how to change a wiper blade.
   
9. Know the outline requirements for an MOT road test.
   

 Alternative B - power boat

1. Complete one of the following two activities:
   
   1. Be able to discuss the principles and performance of several types of motorboat engines, other than two-stroke. Show knowledge of the maintenance needed by a familiar type of marine internal combustion engine, other than two-stroke.
      
   2. Assist with the maintenance, dismantle, service and re-assemble an outboard engine. Demonstrate proper fitting to the transom of a boat. Be able to explain how to detect minor faults in starting and running whilst afloat.
      
2. Complete one of the following two activities:
   
   1. As driver or mechanic member of a power boat's crew:
      
      • Assist in the preparation of the boat for a voyage by checking the engine for possible minor faults, checking the fuel supply and pump, and mustering the fire-fighting equipment.
        
      • In response to orders, operate the engine whilst getting underway from the quay.
        
      • Operate the engine to bring the craft alongside the quay and shut-down.
        
      • Lay out a kedge.
        
      • Re-man the boat in response to a 'distress call' and under orders, start and operate the engine whilst proceeding to and manoeuvring alongside a 'stranded craft'.
        
      • Operate all the boat's gears in a confined area of water and a return journey to base, coming alongside with the tide (or current).
        
      • Know how to leave the engine in a proper manner and how to drain the engine in an emergency.
        
   2. Act as mechanic on at least one short cruise or expedition:
      
      • Be responsible for the running of the engine throughout the cruise.
        
      • Check the engine of a motorboat in preparation for a cruise or expedition to include the provision of fuel and its safe storage, an adequate tool kit and effective fire-fighting apparatus.
        
      • Accompany the expedition either as the mechanic or assistant and be fully or jointly responsible for the operation, care and maintenance of the engine throughout.
        

Alternative C - aircraft

1. Understand the basic principles of, and be able to point out the component parts of either:
   
   1. an aircraft piston engine
      
   2. an aircraft gas turbine engine
      
2. Understand the basic principles of flight and airframe construction of a fixed wing aircraft.
   
3. Know and be able to demonstrate Aircraft Marshalling signals used by day and night.
   
4. Demonstrate your ability to carry out four of the following:
   
   1. replenish a light aircraft fuel and oil system
      
   2. rig and de-rig a glider
      
   3. picket a light aircraft
      
   4. change a set of plugs on a light aircraft engine
      
   5. inspect aircraft main and tail or nose wheel tyres or serviceability
      
   6. repair a small tear in the fabric surface of a light aircraft or glider
      
   7. the pre-use inspection of a parachute and how to put it on and take it off
      
   8. check the control system of a light aircraft or glider for correct sense of movement
      

 Alternative D - motorcycle or scooter

1. Know the principles of operation of a two-stroke or four-stroke internal combustion engine and understand the function of the clutch, gearbox, carburettor and transmission of a motorcycle.
   
2. Remove, clean and check the gap of a sparking plug.
   
3. Check and top up the level of the engine oil.
   
4. Explain how to adjust the tension of the final drive chain.
   
5. Show how to change a bulb at the front and in the rear light cluster.
   
6. Show how to check tyre pressures and inflate a tyre correctly.
   
7. Remove and replace a road wheel.
   
8. Explain what to look for when checking that a tyre conforms to the legal requirement.
   
9. Know the outline requirements for an MOT road test.
   

Notes