Tractor Mechanic

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Tractor Mechanic. A Tractor Mechanic maintains, diagnoses and repairs tractors, agricultural machinery and components such as engines, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, pneumatic and electronic systems according to specifications. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on a tractor, engine components, mechanical parts and hydraulically or electrically powered systems in accordance with specifications. • Disassemble, assess, repair and reassemble tractor and agricultural machinery systems and components in accordance with specifications. • Diagnose and repair faults on tractor and agricultural machinery systems and components in accordance with specifications of diesel engines and power transmission systems.

A Tractor Mechanic is required to diagnose, service, maintain and repair tractors and associated machines. However, due to the complex nature of the tractor systems and components, the mechanic is now required to use technology to diagnose faults, repair and maintain tractor components, i.e. engines, transmissions, mechanical parts and hydraulically and/or electrically powered systems in an efficient and effective manner. Stakeholders involved in agricultural and manufacturing sectors were consulted and representatives participated in the realignment process. Stakeholders included AGRISETA, merSETA, agricultural cooperatives, Skills Development Providers, organised labour (NUMSA), government departments, agricultural equipment importers and distributors and farming enterprises. In modern agricultural processes the tractor and associated machines play a crucial role in ensuring food security, economic growth and sustainability within the country. Global challenges facing agricultural processes require that we have more effective and efficient ways of maintaining tractors and associated machines. Advancement in technology requires Tractor Mechanics to have additional knowledge and skills that will enable them to use modern communication technology, computerised equipment and relevant software tools to execute their tasks as Tractor Mechanics. This qualification is aimed at school leavers, TVET college students as well as learners who are currently employed in a mechanical workshop within industries such as motor, agriculture, construction and mining. Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to: diagnose, service, repair and/or replace and maintain mechanical, hydraulic, electrical systems and components of tractors and associated machines in any of these sectors: motor, agriculture, construction and mining. Possible learning career paths for this qualification are motor mechanic, small engine mechanic, diesel mechanic and heavy equipment mechanic. Upon completion of this qualification, learners can advance their careers by enrolling in higher-level qualifications. By so doing, learners will gain knowledge and skills that will prepare them to take more responsibilities within an organisation, pursue entrepreneurial opportunities or supervise a small team of mechanics within an organisation. Recognition will be given to learners that have gained experience, knowledge and skills through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The qualified Tractor Mechanic will play a role in building the economy of the country and add value to the society.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the Qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: • NQF Level 1 qualification with Mathematics and Physical Science.

• Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on a tractor, engine components, gearboxes, mechanical parts and hydraulically or electrically powered systems in accordance with specifications.
• Disassemble, assess, repair and reassemble tractor engine components, gearboxes, mechanical parts and hydraulically or electrically powered systems in accordance with specifications.
• Diagnose and repair faults on tractor engine components, gearboxes, mechanical parts and hydraulically or electrically powered systems in accordance with specifications.