NCAA AME Powerplant Exam Practice Test & Question Bank study plan

Sketch and label the major components of a horizontally opposed reciprocating engine, naming the function of each in one sentence

Differentiate bore, stroke, displacement, compression ratio, and mean effective pressure, then compute each from given cylinder dimensions

Explain the four-stroke cycle event by event and state where valve lead, lag, and overlap occur relative to top dead center

Describe the construction and failure modes of crankshafts, camshafts, connecting rods, pistons, and cylinders

Identify compressor, combustor, turbine, and exhaust section components on a turbojet, turbofan, and turboprop and state how each type produces thrust

Explain the Brayton cycle and relate pressure ratio, turbine inlet temperature, and exhaust gas temperature to power output and efficiency

Compare axial and centrifugal compressors and describe the purpose of stator vanes, bleed air, and variable inlet guide vanes

Describe turbine blade and nozzle construction, cooling methods, and clearance control

Trace the magneto ignition circuit from magneto through harness to spark plug and explain internal timing versus ignition timing

Describe the induction system from air inlet through carburetor heat, air box, and intake manifold, including the effect of induction leaks

Explain float-type carburetor operation and the causes and recognition of carburetor icing

Describe the purpose and operation of the engine-driven fuel pump, fuel control unit, and mixture control

Compare continuous-flow and direct fuel injection systems and their starting procedures

Identify fixed-pitch, constant-speed, and feathering propeller components and explain how centrifugal twisting moment and aerodynamic twisting moment act on blades

Explain governor operation, including flyweight action, pilot valve movement, and oil pressure effects on blade angle

Describe propeller balancing, tracking, and the inspection points required at each interval

Explain cooling system airflow, cylinder baffling, and cowl flap function, and the lubrication system's pressure and scavenge paths

Trace turbine fuel flow from tank through boost pump, fuel control unit, flow divider, and nozzles, and explain fuel scheduling during acceleration

Describe turbine lubrication system components, oil pressure and temperature limits, and the consequences of chip detection

Explain turbine ignition system energy requirements, exciter operation, and the difference between ignition and starting systems

Describe starter types and the sequence of events during a turbine engine start, including hung start and hot start recognition

Describe how to perform a compression test, cylinder leakage test, and oil analysis and interpret the results against limits

Explain engine run-up procedures, power checks, and the documentation required after maintenance

Describe fire detection and extinguishing systems for engine compartments, including the zones, detectors, and agent types used

Explain engine and propeller installation requirements including mounts, cowling, controls, and flexible connections

Identify the maintenance record entries required after an inspection, repair, or alteration and who is authorized to make each

Explain the role of airworthiness directives, service bulletins, and manufacturer manuals in maintenance decisions

Describe required inspection intervals and the difference between overhaul, rebuild, and repair

Apply safety practices for fuel handling, lockout of ignition, and run-up area control

Complete a full-length timed practice exam under test conditions and record the score by domain

Re-study the two lowest-scoring domains using targeted review of definitions, limits, and system flow paths

Recite from memory the key numerical limits and component functions most often tested

Build a one-page personal reference sheet of formulas, limits, and troubleshooting decision points