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. A yellow tag attached to a removed aircraft component typically indicates: → The part requires inspection or repair before being returned to service
3. Which document lists the empty weight, empty weight CG, and useful load of a certificated aircraft? → Weight and Balance Report
4. What is the minimum bend radius typically specified for aircraft rigid tubing to prevent stress concentration? → Three times the tube outside diameter
5. Which NDT method is most effective for detecting subsurface fatigue cracks in aluminum aircraft structures? → Eddy current inspection
6. When a Significant Structural Repair (SSR) is made to an aircraft, what documentation is required? → A DER-approved repair drawing and an entry in the maintenance record
7. Which of the following is a proper precaution when working around aircraft radar systems? → Ensure the radar is in standby or off mode before working within the beam sweep area
8. When using a torque wrench, in which direction should you apply force relative to the wrench handle to get an accurate reading? → In-line with the handle from the pivot point
9. A technician must sand composite panels for an extended period. Which respiratory protection is most appropriate? → A half-face air-purifying respirator with P100 particulate filters
10. A continuity check of a landing light circuit shows correct resistance, but the light still does not illuminate. The NEXT logical troubleshooting step is: → Check for correct voltage at the light socket with the switch ON
11. What is the purpose of shot peening an aircraft component? → Introduce compressive residual stresses to improve fatigue life
12. An aircraft piston engine develops excessive blow-by past the piston rings. This condition is most reliably detected by: → Differential compression test
13. What fluid is specified for most Boeing commercial aircraft hydraulic systems? → Skydrol (phosphate ester)
14. An aircraft exhibits intermittent static on the communication radio only during climb. The MOST likely cause is: → Loose antenna coaxial connector affected by airframe flexing
15. Which hand tool is specifically designed to cut external threads on a rod or bolt? → Die
16. What is the correct method to check for internal cylinder cracking on a reciprocating engine cylinder barrel? → Magnetic particle inspection
17. Which type of fire extinguisher is most appropriate for an aviation fuel (Class B) fire in a maintenance hangar? → CO2 or dry chemical (Class B/C rated) extinguisher
18. On an aircraft assembly drawing, what does a hidden line (dashed line) represent? → An edge or feature not visible from the current viewing angle
19. During a required inspection, an IA discovers a crack in a primary structural member. Which action is required FIRST? → Ground the aircraft and notify the owner
20. 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)
21. What is the primary purpose of a Receiving Inspection in an aircraft maintenance facility? → To verify parts and materials meet specifications before use
22. What is the primary hazard associated with hydraulic fluid (Skydrol) used in transport-category aircraft? → It is severely caustic and can cause chemical burns to skin and eyes
23. Which property is defined as the ability of a material to absorb energy and deform plastically before fracturing? → Toughness
24. According to 14 CFR 43.13, maintenance must be performed using methods, techniques, and practices prescribed in: → The manufacturer's current maintenance manual or FAA-approved equivalent data
25. Under 14 CFR Part 43, who is authorized to approve an aircraft for return to service after a major repair? → An FAA-certificated IA (Inspection Authorization) holder
26. What does the term 'fatigue strength' refer to in aircraft materials? → Stress level a material can withstand for an infinite number of cycles
27. An aircraft drawing calls out 'FINISH PER SPEC MIL-A-8625 TYPE II CLASS 1'. What process does this specify? → Anodizing treatment for aluminum
28. A technician is installing a new fuel selector valve. After installation, what is the FIRST check to perform? → Confirm the valve operates through all positions without binding
29. When troubleshooting an avionics unit that shows no display, the FIRST step per standard procedure is to: → Check circuit breakers and power supply to the unit
30. A rivet callout on an aircraft structural drawing reads 'MS20470AD4-5'. What does 'AD' indicate? → 2117-T4 aluminum alloy (soft aluminum)