FAA A&P Mechanic case studies
FAA A&P Mechanic · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The FAA Aviation Mechanic certificate - widely called the A&P - is the U.S. credential that lets a mechanic approve an aircraft for return to service after maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration. The letters stand for the two ratings a mechanic may hold: Airframe and Powerplant. The certificate is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration through its Airmen Certification system, and the mechanics, repairmen, and designee programs are administered under the agency's Pilots & Airmen section. The FAA A&P Mechanic case studies are 5 cases and about 3,037 words.
1The Overdue Torque Wrench and the 90-Degree Adapter
You are installing eight 5/16-24 airframe bolts that attach a replacement engine mount to the firewall structure of a Part 91 airplane. The maintenance manual specifies 40 lb-in, plus or minus 5 percent, dry, with the bolt heads up.
596 words, about 3 min2Wing Skin Dent: Within Limits, or a Major Repair?
A Cessna 172 arrives for an annual inspection. On the lower surface of the right wing you find a smooth dent in the 0.032-inch 2024-T3 skin: 1.1 inch diameter, 0.055 inch deep, located 0.8 inch outboard of the nearest rib rivet line and 4 inches aft of the front spar.
616 words, about 3 min3Cold Hangar, Warm Rigging Chart: Elevator Cable Tension
You have replaced a damaged elevator control cable in a light twin and completed initial rigging. Using a calibrated tensiometer, you measure elevator cable tension at 203 lb.
574 words, about 3 min4Low Compression, an Oily Plug, and a Trip Tomorrow
A carbureted four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, 1,900 hours since overhaul, comes in for an annual. Differential compression test: #1 76/80, #2 74/80, #3 58/80, #4 75/80.
619 words, about 3 min5Chip Light After a Starter-Generator Change
A PT6A-powered turboprop has just had its starter-generator replaced. On the first ground run afterward, the chip detector caution annunciator illuminates.
632 words, about 3 min