A&P Reciprocating Engine Overhaul Questions and Answers

Question 1

During a reciprocating engine overhaul, a Magnaflux inspection is performed on the steel crankshaft. What is the primary purpose of this inspection?

Accepted Answer

To detect surface and near-surface cracks or discontinuities.

Answer

To measure the crankshaft for journal out-of-round conditions.

Answer

To verify the chemical composition and hardness of the steel.

Answer

To remove residual magnetism from the part after engine operation.

Question 2

A technician is assembling a cylinder onto a reciprocating engine and is preparing to torque the cylinder base nuts. According to most manufacturer's instructions, what is the proper general procedure for torquing these nuts?

Accepted Answer

Torque all nuts to half the specified value in sequence, then to the final value in the same sequence.

Answer

Torque the nuts to the final value in a single step, starting with the largest stud.

Answer

Hand-tighten all nuts, then fully torque each one in a clockwise pattern.

Answer

Fully torque the two nuts on the crankcase parting line first, then the remaining nuts.

Question 3

After grinding the valves and valve seats in a cylinder head, what is the purpose of the lapping procedure that follows?

Accepted Answer

To ensure a perfect, gas-tight seal between the valve face and the seat.

Answer

To measure the clearance between the valve stem and guide.

Answer

To harden the surface of the valve face and seat.

Answer

To remove any carbon deposits from the combustion chamber.

Question 4

When installing new piston rings, a technician notes that one of the compression rings has a small dot or the word "TOP" marked on one side. How should this ring be oriented in the piston groove?

Accepted Answer

The mark should be positioned facing the top of the piston (the crown).

Answer

The mark should be positioned facing the bottom of the piston (the skirt).

Answer

The orientation does not matter as the ring is symmetrical.

Answer

The mark should be aligned with the piston pin.

Question 5

A technician is inspecting a connecting rod from a recently disassembled engine. Which of the following conditions would be cause for mandatory rejection of the part?

Accepted Answer

The connecting rod exhibits a slight twist or bend beyond serviceable limits.

Answer

Minor discoloration on the beam of the rod.

Answer

Piston pin bushing shows signs of normal operational wear.

Answer

Surface rust is present on the non-machined surfaces.

Question 6

An engine has been overhauled according to the manufacturer's manual using a combination of new parts and used parts that conform to "serviceable limits." How is the total time in service (TIS) on the engine logbook affected?

Accepted Answer

A new logbook is started, and the old time is archived.

Answer

The total time is reset to zero, as it is considered a "zero-time" engine.

Answer

The total time is cut in half, reflecting the new condition of many parts.

Answer

The total time continues from where it was before the overhaul.