What is the difference between light-duty and heavy duty diesel technology?
Diesel technology is a popular choice for many who are planning a career in the automotive industry. And if you’re considering a career in diesel technology, one of the decisions you’ll need to make before choosing a training program is whether to pursue light duty or heavy duty diesel technology.
Light duty vs. heavy duty diesel
In spite of using the same diesel technology, there is a big difference between light-duty and heavy-duty diesel technology—namely, size!
Heavy-duty diesel vehicles typically include gear such as industrial, agricultural, construction, power generation, and manufacturing equipment—or commercial vehicles that weigh over 10,000 pounds—while light-duty diesel vehicles are the cars and trucks you’re more likely to see out on the road. Those light-duty vehicles include both diesel engine passenger cars and big pickup trucks that weigh up to 10,000 pounds.
The difference at work
Many light duty diesel techs find work in many of the same places as other automotive technicians: dealerships, repair shops, auto manufacturers, and parts and accessories stores.
But heavy duty diesel technicians are more likely to work in environments related to truck transportation, wholesale trade, or government agencies.
In both cases, diesel technicians may work primarily in one location or spend time working—and especially performing repairs—at remote locations, including roadsides or worksites. Many techs work regular hours, but with weekend, evening, or holiday work (or on-call time) as needed.
Other differences to consider
Besides the differences in work environment and the types of vehicles or equipment you’ll spend your time with, consider how choosing a specialization in either light duty or heavy duty might otherwise affect your career.
For instance, the types of technology you’re trained to work on can affect where the most available jobs are (more jobs related to agricultural diesel equipment may be found in the Midwest, rather than on a coast) or what types of career paths could be available in your future (it may be easier to transition to general automotive work from light-duty than from heavy-duty experience).
Looking for a school that can help you choose between light-duty and heavy-duty diesel technology—and help you begin a career training program? Our friends at Universal Technical Institute are here to help!
Check Out Schools That Offer This Program
More on Mechanical Sciences
Aircraft Technician Careers with Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology
by
Imagine America
September 15, 2021
AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN CAREERS WITH SPARTAN COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS AND TECHNOLOGY: SEASON 3, EPISODE 19 MORE FROM OUR EPISODE ON AIRCRAFT TECHNICIAN CAREERS WITH SPARTAN COLLEGE OF AERONaUTICS AND TECHNOLOGY Where Is Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology Located? CONTACT SPARTAN COLLEGE — TULSA MAIN CAMPUS…
Aviation, Career Development, Continuing Education, Education, Mechanical Sciences, Podcast
0
Transportation Industry Awareness Month
by
Imagine America
September 7, 2021
Transportation Industry Awareness Month – September 2021 September is Transportation Industry Awareness Month at the Imagine America Foundation, and we can’t wait to share some fantastic resources with our community of counselors, workforce development boards, VA offices, parents, and—of course—students. Careers in the transportation industry…
Automotive, Aviation, Mechanical Sciences
0
How To Become A Certified Automotive Technician
by
Imagine America
August 11, 2021
How to Become a Certified Automotive Technician Are you ready to accelerate your automotive career? Becoming an automotive technician is the first step on the road to proficiency in the automotive world. And if you’re looking for more of a challenge, earning certifications can help…
Automotive, Continuing Education, Mechanical Sciences
0
Hot
How Much Does Automotive School Cost?
by
Imagine America
August 11, 2021
How Much Does Automotive School Cost? The good news if you’re planning on pursuing a career in automotive repair is this: Your education isn’t going to cost you as much as a brand-new Corvette. But don’t expect your education to be free either. If you’re…
Automotive, Mechanical Sciences
0
Should I Become a Wind Turbine Technician?
by
Imagine America
May 30, 2021
Should I Become a Wind Turbine Technician? There is no doubt that the world is facing major challenges when it comes to climate change, the consumption of fossil fuels, and the future of our planet. One way that many communities are responding to these concerns…
Education, Mechanical Sciences
0
Should I Become an Industrial Maintenance Technician?
by
Imagine America
May 30, 2021
Should I Become an Industrial Maintenance Technician? If you’ve ever enjoyed taking apart small appliances, putting things back together again, or just figuring out how things work, becoming an industrial maintenance technician could be a great career opportunity for you. Many industries rely on large…
Leave a Comment