Master the mechanical precision of manual drivetrains and accelerate your career toward ASE A3 certification.
From modern electronically controlled all-wheel-drive platforms to classic manual gearboxes, modern technicians face an increasingly complex array of driveline challenges. Written by industry expert Brian Hagopian, A3 delivers an exhaustive, practical breakdown of manual drivetrains and axles designed for serious apprentices, vocational students, and seasoned service professionals alike.
Dive deep into the mechanics of power transfer: master clutch diagnostics, overhaul manual transmissions and transaxles, analyze synchronizer operation, and balance precision drive shafts. This authoritative guide demystifies hypoid ring and pinion depth adjustments, differential backlash settings, transfer cases, and CV joint servicing. Equipped with methodical strategies for noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) isolation, you will develop the analytical skills required to troubleshoot elusive shop problems with confidence.
Fully aligned with the latest ASE task specifications and enriched with indispensable shop safety and precision measurement guidelines, A3 is your definitive road map to mastering driveline service and earning top-tier certification.
I write in two distinct fields: comprehensive Automotive Technology textbooks and faith-centered books drawn from my ministry messages, revivals, and Bible studies. Automotive & Educational background with over 35 years of hands-on automotive shop experience and a passion for teaching, I strive to mold and inspire the next generation of technicians. My journey began at Fresno City College, where an intro automotive class sparked a lifelong passion. After building a successful career—making top technician status at a General Motors dealership—I transitioned into education as an instructor at Las Positas College.
Education:
• B.A. in Organizational Management (Ashford University)
• A.S. in Automotive Technology (Fresno City College)
Master & Advanced ASE Certifications:
• Master Technician (A1–A9)
• Advanced Engine Performance (L1)
• Electronic Diesel (L2)
• Alternative Fuels & Hybrid (L3)
• General Service (G1)
• Compressed Natural Gas (F1)
• Heavy Duty Truck (T1, T2, T3, T6)
• Truck Equipment (E1)
• Mechanical/
• Exhaust Specialist (X1)
• Parts Specialist (P1)
• Service Consultant (C1)
Industry Honors:
• General Motors World Class Technician (2 in California, #7 Worldwide)
• Isuzu Master Elite Technician
• NACAT, B'laster, and Tomorrow’s Tech* Instructor of the Month (March 2026).
Specialized Training & Certifications:
• California Smog Inspector, Repair Technician, & Instructor
• HDIM Referee
• Certified Hybrid, Alternative Fuel, & EV Trainer
• Tesla Emergency Response
• Mike Rowe Works Ethics Certification
• HVAC 609
• I-Car Certified Instructor
• ACDelco Certified Instructor
• NC3 Certified (Zeus, Oscilloscopes, Verus Edge, Shop Key, Precision Measurement, Torque, TPMS, Procut, B2000P, T7800, Pro X, Multimeters).
Industry Memberships:
• ASE
• CAT
• NACAT
• SAE
• SEMA
• PRI.
Advice for Aspiring Technicians:
"Buckle down, go to class, apply yourself, listen, and learn. Just because you think you can work on cars does not mean you can. I learn every day. If you cannot accept that there is much to learn, one day you will wake up and be disappointed at the life that you have made for yourself."
Ministry & Community Service
Outside the classroom and shop, I am known as "Uncle B." I proudly serve at Courts of Praise Church in Manteca, California, where I hold several key roles: * Deacon & Co-President, Board of Directors * Men’s Ministry President * Head of Safety & Security * Maintenance, Operations, & Facilities
Serving the Lord is a joy—as Matthew 11:30 reminds us, *"His yoke is easy and His burden is light."
Personal Life
When I’m not teaching or serving at church, I love spending quality time with my wife and three adopted children. I am an avid firearms collector and enjoy range days practicing marksmanship. Friday nights are reserved for date night, and Sunday mornings are for church!