IA Engine & Powerplant Inspection Procedures 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During an annual inspection of a reciprocating engine, which component is checked for correct torque, safety, and security?
- Only spark plugs
- Engine mount bolts, exhaust system, and all accessory attachment hardware (Correct answer)
- Propeller governor only
- Throttle body and fuel injector nozzles only
Correct answer: Engine mount bolts, exhaust system, and all accessory attachment hardware
The annual inspection requires checking all engine hardware including mounts, exhaust connections, and accessory attachments for proper torque and security.
Question 2: What does a differential compression test on a reciprocating engine measure?
- Fuel mixture ratio at full power
- Combustion chamber integrity by comparing cylinder pressure to regulated input pressure (Correct answer)
- Magneto timing relative to top dead center
- Oil pressure at cruise RPM
Correct answer: Combustion chamber integrity by comparing cylinder pressure to regulated input pressure
A differential compression test applies regulated air to each cylinder and measures the pressure retained, indicating the condition of rings, valves, and cylinder walls.
Question 3: When inspecting an exhaust system during an annual, what is the primary concern?
- Carbon buildup reducing exhaust flow efficiency
- Cracks, loose clamps, or gaps that could allow CO to enter the cabin (Correct answer)
- EGT probe calibration accuracy
- Exhaust stack paint condition
Correct answer: Cracks, loose clamps, or gaps that could allow CO to enter the cabin
Cracks or leaks in the exhaust system are a critical safety hazard because carbon monoxide can enter the aircraft cabin and incapacitate the crew.
Question 4: What does an IA check regarding propeller tracking during an annual inspection?
- That all blades track within 1/16 inch of each other
- That the propeller governor maintains RPM within 50 RPM of redline
- That each blade tip passes through the same plane of rotation within manufacturer limits (Correct answer)
- That propeller pitch is set to the manufacturer's cruise setting
Correct answer: That each blade tip passes through the same plane of rotation within manufacturer limits
Propeller tracking verifies that all blades rotate in essentially the same plane; excessive deviation indicates a bent blade or flange misalignment.
Question 5: An IA discovers metal particles in the engine oil filter during an annual inspection. What is the correct action?
- Change the oil and filter, then return to service
- Document the finding and determine whether the source requires further investigation before approving return to service (Correct answer)
- Clean the filter and run the engine for 30 minutes to flush the system
- Add oil treatment additive and monitor during next 25-hour inspection
Correct answer: Document the finding and determine whether the source requires further investigation before approving return to service
Metal particles in the oil filter are a potential indicator of internal engine wear or damage and require investigation to determine the source before return to service.
Question 6: Which FAA document provides the minimum inspection requirements for aircraft engines during an annual inspection?
- AC 43.13-1B, Chapter 8
- 14 CFR Part 91, Appendix D
- 14 CFR Part 91, Appendix E
- 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A
14 CFR Part 43, Appendix D provides the minimum scope and detail of items to be covered during an annual or 100-hour inspection, including engine items.
IA Engine & Powerplant Inspection Procedures 1
During an annual inspection of a reciprocating engine, which component is checked for correct torque, safety, and security?