AME Reciprocating Engine Theory and Operation

Question 1

What is the correct firing order of the Lycoming O-320 four-cylinder horizontally-opposed aircraft engine?

Accepted Answer

1-3-2-4

Answer

1-4-2-3

Answer

1-2-4-3

Answer

1-3-4-2

Question 2

What does TDC stand for as used in reciprocating engine terminology?

Accepted Answer

Top Dead Center

Answer

Total Dead Center

Answer

Terminal Drive Cycle

Answer

Top Drive Compression

Question 3

At what point in the 4-stroke operating cycle does ignition typically occur?

Accepted Answer

Near the end of the compression stroke slightly before TDC

Answer

At the beginning of the intake stroke

Answer

At the start of the exhaust stroke

Answer

At the midpoint of the power stroke

Question 4

What is the primary safety advantage of a dual independent magneto ignition system in a reciprocating aircraft engine?

Accepted Answer

It provides redundancy so the engine continues running if one magneto fails

Answer

It doubles the engine's rated power output

Answer

It automatically adjusts ignition timing with altitude changes

Answer

It eliminates the need for battery power during flight

Question 5

What type of lubrication system is standard on most horizontally-opposed aircraft reciprocating engines?

Accepted Answer

Wet sump with oil stored in the engine crankcase

Answer

Dry sump with a remote external oil tank

Answer

Total loss oiling using pre-mixed fuel and oil

Answer

External hydraulic oil shared with the flight controls

Question 6

What is the primary function of applying carburetor heat in a piston-engine aircraft?

Accepted Answer

To prevent or eliminate ice formation inside the carburetor

Answer

To increase engine power during high-altitude cruise

Answer

To lean the fuel-air mixture during descent

Answer

To pre-heat the induction air before cold engine start

Question 7

What is the most common cause of detonation in a reciprocating aircraft engine?

Accepted Answer

Using aviation fuel with an octane rating lower than required

Answer

Operating with an excessively rich fuel-air mixture at cruise

Answer

Running the engine at low RPM and low power settings

Answer

Having too much ignition advance on both magnetos