AM Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield AM facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the primary advantage of a variable-displacement hydraulic pump over a fixed-displacement pump? → Reduces flow when pressure demand is met, saving power and reducing heat
2. Which document lists the empty weight, empty weight CG, and useful load of a certificated aircraft? → Weight and Balance Report
3. What fluid is specified for most Boeing commercial aircraft hydraulic systems? → Skydrol (phosphate ester)
4. Which regulatory reference establishes weight and balance requirements for certificated aircraft maintenance? → 14 CFR Part 43 and the aircraft's approved Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS)
5. What is the typical operating pressure range for a large transport aircraft hydraulic system? → 3,000–5,000 psi
6. What type of wire is required in aircraft electrical systems to prevent fire hazard in fuel tank areas? → Teflon-insulated wire
7. What wire gauge system is used for aircraft electrical wire sizing? → AWG (American Wire Gauge)
8. What is a fundamental principle of Installation Techniques in Aircraft Maintenance Certification practice? → Following established standards and best practices
9. What is the standard voltage for most general aviation aircraft DC electrical systems? → 28 volts
10. What is the recommended action when an aircraft engine experiences abnormal vibration during operation? → Shut down the engine and inspect for faults
11. What is the role of documentation in Material Selection & Properties for Aircraft Maintenance Certification? → It provides an accurate record for accountability and reference
12. When bleeding a hydraulic system, why must air be completely removed? → Air is compressible and causes spongy, unpredictable actuator response
13. Which regulatory body is responsible for aviation safety in the United States? → Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
14. Which of the following is a key principle of workplace safety in Aircraft Maintenance Certification? → Reporting all near-misses and incidents
15. How does collaboration enhance Material Selection & Properties in Aircraft Maintenance Certification? → It brings diverse perspectives and improves outcomes
16. In Aircraft Maintenance Certification practice, what should a professional do when facing a conflict of interest? → Disclose the conflict and recuse if necessary
17. What is the role of the aircraft logbook in maintenance operations? → To track maintenance history and compliance
18. How does collaboration enhance Installation Techniques in Aircraft Maintenance Certification? → It brings diverse perspectives and improves outcomes
19. What is the purpose of an aircraft logbook in maintenance procedures? → To track maintenance history and compliance
20. What condition does a hydraulic system ground test must verify before return to service after seal replacement? → No external leaks at operating pressure and correct actuator travel
21. If the computed CG falls outside the aft CG limit, what is the result? → Reduced longitudinal stability, making recovery from a stall more difficult
22. Which of the following best describes confidentiality in Aircraft Maintenance Certification? → Protecting sensitive information from unauthorized disclosure
23. Which principle underpins Total Quality Management (TQM) in Aircraft Maintenance Certification? → Everyone in the organization is responsible for quality
24. What is 'MAC' (Mean Aerodynamic Chord) used for in weight and balance? → Expressing CG location as a percentage of the wing chord for transport-category aircraft
25. What is the purpose of a flux gate compass in an aircraft? → Detect the Earth's magnetic field for heading reference
26. Which skill is most important for success in Troubleshooting & Diagnostics within Aircraft Maintenance Certification? → Continuous learning and adaptation
27. What is the correct procedure when mixing different brands of the same type of hydraulic fluid (e.g., Skydrol 500B-4 and Skydrol LD-4)? → Check with the aircraft manufacturer's CMM before mixing
28. What is 'zero fuel weight'? → The maximum allowable weight of the aircraft without usable fuel
29. Which approach best supports quality outcomes in Troubleshooting & Diagnostics for Aircraft Maintenance Certification? → Systematic application of evidence-based methods
30. Which pneumatic system component removes moisture from compressed air before it enters the distribution system? → Air dryer/moisture separator