Ground Handling and Servicing Flashcards
Name at least three possible hazards that may be encountered during typical ground operations, such as during engine run-up or taxiing?
The possibility of fire, especially during engine starting. Turning props, rotors, prop or jet blast and inlet areas. Other aircraft, vehicles, people and obstacles. Foreign objects such as rocks, gravel, rags, or loose hardware. High noise levels that might cause hearing damage. Hydraulic lock in radial engines. Weathervaning of tailwheel aircraft.
What is the most generally used knot for tying down small aircraft?
The bowline (although other anti-slip knots may be used.)
Describe the precautions that should be taken to protect life and property while starting and running an aircraft engine.
Study the procedures in the Airplane Flight Manual. Be sure the propeller or inlet area is clear and check for loose stones, gravel, etc… that could be sucked into the prop or engine. Also ensure that the prop or jet blast doesn’t blow into hangars or other airplanes, and have a fire guard nearby.
If an engine induction fire occurs while starting a reciprocating engine, what procedure should be followed to extinguish the fire?
Continue cranking the engine to start it and suck the fire into the engine. If the engine doesn’t start and the fire continues to burn, discontinue the start attempt and extinguish the fire with a suitable fire extinguisher.
What safety procedures must be observed when hand-propping a small aircraft engine?
Become thoroughly trained. Have a qualified person in the cockpit, check the brakes, call “SWITCH OFF” before moving the prop, and make sure you have solid footing. When ready to start, call “CONTACT” and listen for the reply. Swing the prop with the flat of your hand and move back from the prop arc.
What procedure should be followed prior to starting a large radial engine to detect and/or prevent hydraulic lock in the cylinders?
Pull the propeller through by hand for three or four complete revolutions. Resistance to the prop turning indicates a possible hydraulic lock in at least one of the cylinders.
What is the cause of hydraulic lock in large radial engines?
Oil seeps by the piston rings and accumulates in the combustion chamber of lower cylinders. When a piston comes up on its compression stroke, the incompressible liquid seizes it.
What is meant by the term “Hot Start” when starting a jet engine?
Ignition occurs with an excessively rich mixture, leading to a rapid temperature rise that can exceed the exhaust gas temperature limit.
When towing an aircraft, should you use the tow vehicle or aircraft brakes to stop the aircraft?
The tow vehicle brakes should be used except in an emergency - then the aircraft brakes may be used.
Why should an aircraft technician become familiar with standard light signals?
Light signals may be used when taxiing an airplane without a radio or when a radio becomes inoperative on a tower controlled airport.
If a mixture of aviation gasoline and jet fuel is used in a reciprocating aircraft engine, what are the possible results?
Avgas contaminated by jet fuel must not be used in piston engines- the engine may be damaged or destroyed.
What does the number 100 signify in 100LL aviation gasoline?
If refers to the lean mixture performance number (or octane rating) of the fuel.
Is it permissible to use avgas in a turbine engine?
Limited operation may be allowed by the manufacturer. Continued use may reduce efficiency due to lead deposits on the turbine blades.
What are some of the possible outcomes of using a lower grade of avgas than the specified grade?
An increased chance of engine damage due to detonation, loss of engine power, and an increased probability of overheating.
Part 23.973 of the FAA regulations specifies that certain markings must be placed adjacent to fuel filler openings. What markings are used for reciprocating engine-powered airplanes?
The filler openings must be marked with the fuel grade and the word “AVGAS”.
