A&P - Aircraft and Powerplant Aircraft Fuel Systems Flashcards

What is 'fuel starvation' and how does it differ from 'fuel exhaustion'?

Answer: Starvation is fuel present but not reaching the engine; exhaustion is all usable fuel depleted

Fuel starvation means fuel exists in the tanks but cannot reach the engine (wrong selector, blocked line), while exhaustion means no usable fuel remains.

What is the purpose of an aircraft fuel strainer (gascolator)?

Answer: Filter sediment and water from fuel before it reaches the carburetor or fuel control unit

The gascolator (fuel strainer) is the final filtration point before the engine, catching sediment and collecting water that may have passed earlier filters.

What does a fuel flow meter measure in a fuel-injected aircraft engine?

Answer: Volume or mass of fuel delivered to the engine per unit time

A fuel flow meter measures the volume or mass flow rate of fuel to the engine, helping pilots monitor fuel consumption and engine performance.

What is the minimum acceptable octane rating for an engine placarded for 100LL if 100LL is unavailable?

Answer: A higher-octane grade such as 100/130 may be substituted; lower grades are not permitted

An engine requiring 100LL may use higher-octane aviation grades as an upward substitution, but lower-octane fuels risk detonation damage.

What action must a technician take after replacing a fuel quantity transmitter (sender) in a fuel tank?

Answer: Calibrate and functionally test the fuel quantity indicating system

After replacing a fuel quantity transmitter, the technician must calibrate and operationally test the fuel quantity system to verify accurate indication.

Where must a fuel cap 'No Smoking' placard be located on a certificated aircraft?

Answer: Adjacent to each fuel filler opening as required by FAA regulations

FAA regulations require a 'No Smoking' placard adjacent to each fuel filler cap to warn ground personnel of the fire hazard.