Chapter 2 - Reciprocating Engine Operation, Instruments, Maintenance, and Overhaul - Oral Questions

Question 1

What indications are given in the event of a leaking or open primer while the engine is running?

Answer 1

The engine will not idle properly

Question 2

A cold cylinder is found when troubleshooting a running engine. What does this indicate?

Answer 2

No combustion in that cylinder

Question 3

When pulling a propeller through, a hissing sound is heard, indicating valve blow-by. What procedure should be performed next?

Answer 3

A compression check should be performed to identify the faulty cylinder

Question 4

What is the purpose of performing a compression test?

Answer 4

To determine if the valves, pistons and rings are sealing properly

Question 5

When an engine is overhauled, how is its total time affected? When an engine is rebuilt, how is its operating history affected?

Answer 5

1. The total time on the engine must be continued and the time since major overhaul is entered into the log.
2. If the manufacturer rebuilds the engine, it is granted a zero-time status and is considered to have no previous operating history

Question 6

What inspections should be performed after a propeller strike without sudden stoppage?

Answer 6

1. Inspect engine mounts, the crankcase, and the nose section for damage.
2. Inspect the oil and oil filters/screen for metal particles.
3. Inspect the crankshafts or driveshaft for cracks and misalignment

Question 7

Name some of the precautions that should be performed prior to engine removal.

Answer 7

Disconnect the battery, turn off the fuel valves, chock the wheels, and if necessary, install a tail stand

Question 8

When inspecting a piston, where are cracks most likely to be found?

Answer 8

in those areas that are highly stressed; usually the base of the piston bosses, inside at the junction of the bore and the walls, and ring lands

Question 9

What does it mean if an engine part is within “serviceable limits”?

Answer 9

It means that the part is within the manufacturer’s limits and can be used in an engine (does not require replacement)

Question 10

What tools or instruments are used to inspect a cylinder barrel for out of round-of-roundness?

Answer 10

A dial indicator or an inside micrometer is usually used to measure the top of the cylinder and the skirt. A telescope gauge and micrometer can also be used. Two readings should be taken 90 degrees from each other

Question 11

How can a loose stud in the engine crankcase be repaired?

Answer 11

Remove the loose stud and inspect the hole for size and thread condition. It may be necessary to use an oversize stud or Heli-coil insert

Question 12

What publication is used to check an engine for normal operation?

Answer 12

Manufacturer’s maintenance manual

Question 13

A weak cylinder is found during a compression check. What must be inspected?

Answer 13

Pressure is transmitted equally in all directions

Question 14

What purpose does oil analysis serve?

Answer 14

Metal particles in the oil show normal wear of the engine. This helps in evaluating the engine’s internal condition

Question 15

What inspection should be performed on an engine that has been in storage?

Answer 15

Perform an inspection to determine if there is any corrosion damage

Question 16

Where would a carburetor air temperature bulb be located?

Answer 16

In the ram air intake duct

Question 17

What is the fuel pressure range on float-type carburetors?

Answer 17

3 to 5 p.s.i.

Question 18

Name the basic components of a fuel system?

Answer 18

The transmitter and the indicator

Question 19

What unit of measure is generally used to indicate fuel flow?

Answer 19

Pounds or gallons per hour

Question 20

Why is fuel flow monitored?

Answer 20

To determine fuel consumption and engine performance

Question 21

What does the manifold gauge indicate and how is it calibrated?

Answer 21

It measures the absolute pressure in the engine manifold and is calibrated in inches of mercury

Question 22

What directly controls manifold pressure?

Answer 22

The throttle opening and engine r.p.m.

Question 23

During engine operation, where should the propeller control be set when checking the manifold pressure?

Answer 23

Low pitch, high r.p.m.

Question 24

Is the aircraft electrical system required to power a cylinder head temperature gauge?

Answer 24

No. A thermocouple is used as the electrical source

Question 25

What are the possible indications of an oil pressure transmitter or indicator malfunction?

Answer 25

A severe sudden drop in oil pressure while the oil temperature remains normal and the oil supply remains full

Question 26

What does a “tachometer” indicate on a reciprocating engine?

Answer 26

Engine r.p.m.

Question 27

Where should the thermocouple be installed on a reciprocating engine using a single probe cylinder head temperature system?

Answer 27

On the hottest cylinder