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100+ Free FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant (AMP) Practice Questions

Pass your FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant Knowledge Test (AMP) exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.

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A circuit breaker in an aircraft engine electrical circuit is designed to:

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Key Facts: FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant (AMP) Exam

100

Multiple-Choice Questions

FAA Airman Knowledge Test (code AMP)

2 hours

Time Limit

FAA airman knowledge testing

70%

Passing Score

FAA airman knowledge test standards

~$175

PSI Testing Fee

PSI FAA airman testing

3

Separate Mechanic Tests (General, Airframe, Powerplant)

14 CFR Part 65

Part 65

Eligibility Regulation

14 CFR Part 65

The FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant knowledge test (code AMP) is 100 multiple-choice questions with a 2-hour time limit and a 70% passing score, delivered by computer through PSI on the FAA airman testing system. It is one of three separate mechanic knowledge tests (General, Airframe, Powerplant) and tests powerplant subjects from the FAA-S-ACS-1 Powerplant ACS. Eligibility to test is governed by 14 CFR Part 65, which requires graduation from an FAA-certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School or documented practical experience. This free bank provides 100 powerplant practice questions with detailed explanations across all 14 subject areas.

Sample FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant (AMP) Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant (AMP) exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1In a four-stroke reciprocating aircraft engine, how many crankshaft rotations are required to complete one full operating cycle for a single cylinder?
A.Two revolutions (720 degrees)
B.One revolution (360 degrees)
C.Three revolutions (1080 degrees)
D.Four revolutions (1440 degrees)
Explanation: The Otto four-stroke cycle (intake, compression, power, exhaust) requires the piston to travel up and down twice, which equals two complete crankshaft revolutions, or 720 degrees, per cylinder cycle. Each stroke covers 180 degrees of crankshaft rotation.
2Valve overlap in a reciprocating engine refers to the period when:
A.Both valves are closed during the compression stroke
B.Both the intake and exhaust valves are open simultaneously near top dead center
C.The exhaust valve opens before the power stroke ends
D.The intake valve closes after bottom dead center
Explanation: Valve overlap is the interval, measured in crankshaft degrees near the end of the exhaust stroke and beginning of the intake stroke, when the intake valve has opened before the exhaust valve has closed. This improves volumetric efficiency and aids cylinder scavenging and cooling.
3What is the primary purpose of the dynamic dampers (counterweights) attached to the crankshaft of a radial reciprocating engine?
A.To increase the compression ratio
B.To balance the propeller load
C.To reduce torsional vibration of the crankshaft
D.To increase crankshaft RPM
Explanation: Dynamic dampers are pendulum-type counterweights that swing on the crankshaft to absorb and reduce torsional (twisting) vibration caused by the power impulses of the cylinders. They prevent harmful crankshaft resonance at certain RPM ranges.
4The compression ratio of a reciprocating engine is defined as the ratio of:
A.Cylinder bore to piston stroke
B.Power output to fuel consumed
C.Intake manifold pressure to atmospheric pressure
D.Cylinder volume at bottom dead center to cylinder volume at top dead center
Explanation: Compression ratio is the total cylinder volume with the piston at bottom dead center divided by the clearance volume with the piston at top dead center. It expresses how much the fuel-air charge is compressed before ignition.
5Detonation in a reciprocating engine cylinder is best described as:
A.An instantaneous, explosive, and uncontrolled burning of the remaining charge
B.The normal progressive burning of the fuel-air mixture
C.Combustion that begins before the spark plug fires
D.A misfire caused by a fouled spark plug
Explanation: Detonation is the spontaneous, almost instantaneous explosion of the unburned end gas after normal ignition, producing extreme pressure spikes and temperatures that can damage pistons, rings, and valves. It is often heard as engine 'knock.'
6Preignition in a reciprocating engine cylinder is caused by:
A.A spark plug firing too late in the cycle
B.Ignition of the fuel-air mixture by a hot spot before the normal spark occurs
C.Excessively rich fuel-air mixture
D.A clogged exhaust valve guide
Explanation: Preignition occurs when a glowing carbon deposit, overheated spark plug electrode, or other hot spot ignites the charge before the timed spark, causing rough running, power loss, and possible engine damage. It can be a result of, or lead to, detonation.
7On a horizontally opposed aircraft engine, the firing order is designed primarily to:
A.Maximize the compression ratio
B.Reduce the number of spark plugs required
C.Distribute power impulses evenly and minimize vibration
D.Allow the magneto to rotate slower
Explanation: The firing order spaces the power impulses around the crankshaft so that loads and vibrations are distributed as evenly as possible, producing smooth operation. A common Lycoming four-cylinder opposed firing order is 1-3-2-4.
8What is the function of the piston rings in a reciprocating engine?
A.To provide electrical grounding for the spark plugs
B.To time the opening of the valves
C.To drive the camshaft
D.To seal combustion pressure, control oil, and transfer heat to the cylinder wall
Explanation: Compression rings seal combustion gases above the piston, oil control rings meter and scrape lubricating oil from the cylinder wall, and the rings together conduct heat from the piston to the cylinder for cooling. Proper ring sealing is essential to compression and oil consumption control.
9A differential compression test on a reciprocating engine cylinder primarily detects:
A.Leakage past the valves and piston rings
B.Ignition timing errors
C.Fuel metering problems
D.Magneto internal timing
Explanation: A differential compression test applies regulated air pressure to a cylinder at top dead center on the compression stroke and compares input pressure to cylinder pressure, revealing leakage past the exhaust valve, intake valve, or piston rings. Air heard at the exhaust, intake, or oil filler indicates the leak location.
10During a differential compression test, if air escapes audibly from the engine breather or oil filler tube, the most likely cause is:
A.A leaking exhaust valve
B.Worn or broken piston rings
C.A leaking intake valve
D.A cracked cylinder head
Explanation: Air heard escaping at the crankcase breather or oil filler indicates that compression is leaking past the piston rings into the crankcase, pointing to worn, stuck, or broken rings or a worn cylinder. Listening locations help isolate the leak path.

About the FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant (AMP) Exam

The FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant Knowledge Test (AMP) is the FAA airman knowledge test required for the powerplant rating of the A&P mechanic certificate. It is a 100-question, computer-based multiple-choice test delivered through PSI, covering reciprocating and turbine engines, propellers, ignition, fuel, lubrication, electrical, induction/cooling, instruments, inspection, overhaul, fire protection, and exhaust systems under 14 CFR Part 65 and the FAA-S-ACS-1 Powerplant ACS.

Assessment

100 multiple-choice, 2 hours, 70% to pass, computer-based via PSI (official FAA AMP test, separate from General & Airframe); this practice bank is 100 selected-response items

Time Limit

2 hours

Passing Score

70%

Exam Fee

~$175 (PSI testing fee) (Federal Aviation Administration (FAA))

FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant (AMP) Exam Content Outline

16%

Reciprocating Engines

Four-stroke cycle, valve timing and overlap, compression ratio, detonation and preignition, firing order, piston rings, crankshafts and dynamic dampers, radial master rods, and valve clearance.

14%

Turbine Engines

Axial and centrifugal compressors, combustion and turbine sections, compressor stalls, variable stator vanes, spool speeds, FOD, hot and hung starts, and turbine blade creep.

9%

Ignition & Starting Systems

Magneto theory, E-gap, impulse couplings, P-leads, condensers, magneto checks, turbine high-energy igniters, and spark plug fouling and installation.

9%

Propellers

Constant-speed governors, blade angle, feathering, fail-safe pitch behavior, blade tracking, propeller damage limits, turboprop reduction gearing, and dynamic balancing.

8%

Engine Fuel Metering Systems

Float carburetors, carburetor icing, accelerating pumps, continuous-flow fuel injection, mixture leaning, and idle mixture adjustment.

7%

Engine Instrument Systems

Manifold pressure, bourdon-tube pressure gauges, cylinder head temperature thermocouples, tachometers, exhaust gas temperature, and turbine power-setting parameters.

7%

Lubrication Systems

Wet- and dry-sump systems, oil functions, pressure relief valves, scavenge pumps, oil temperature troubleshooting, chip detectors, and oil viscosity.

7%

Engine Electrical Systems

Alternators, voltage regulators, starter-generators, bonding and grounding, wiring harness inspection, circuit breakers, and ignition harness resistance testing.

7%

Induction, Airflow & Engine Cooling Systems

Air-cooled cylinder cooling, baffles and seals, cowl flaps, carburetor heat and alternate air, turbochargers, and wastegate boost control.

6%

Engine Inspection

Differential compression tests, 100-hour and annual inspections, borescope use, Airworthiness Directives, and valve condition assessment.

6%

Engine Fuel Systems

Engine-driven and boost pumps, fuel strainers and contamination, vapor lock, turbine fuel control units, and fuel heaters.

5%

Engine Removal, Installation & Overhaul

Removal preparation and safing, TBO concepts, overhaul dimensional inspection to service limits, post-installation run-up and break-in, and vibration isolation mounts.

5%

Engine Fire Protection

Continuous-loop and thermal-switch fire detection, nacelle fire extinguishing, firewalls, and fire detection system testing.

4%

Engine Exhaust & Reverser Systems

Turbine exhaust systems and nozzles, thrust reversers, and reciprocating exhaust inspection for cracks, leaks, and carbon monoxide hazards.

How to Pass the FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant (AMP) Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: 70%
  • Assessment: 100 multiple-choice, 2 hours, 70% to pass, computer-based via PSI (official FAA AMP test, separate from General & Airframe); this practice bank is 100 selected-response items
  • Time limit: 2 hours
  • Exam fee: ~$175 (PSI testing fee)

Keys to Passing

  • Complete 500+ practice questions
  • Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
  • Focus on highest-weighted sections
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

FAA Aviation Mechanic — Powerplant (AMP) Study Tips from Top Performers

1Weight your study time toward reciprocating and turbine engine theory, since together they make up roughly 30% of the powerplant subject coverage.
2Learn engine systems by tracing flow paths end to end: fuel, ignition spark, oil circulation, induction air, and exhaust gas.
3Memorize the official exam structure (100 questions, 2 hours, 70% to pass) and keep Powerplant content separate in your mind from General and Airframe topics.
4For troubleshooting questions, reason from symptom to cause: connect low compression, high oil temperature, or a hot start to the specific failing component.
5Practice mixed timed sets across all 14 subject areas so weak topics like fire protection and exhaust systems are not neglected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many questions are on the FAA AMT Powerplant (AMP) knowledge test?

The official FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant knowledge test, code AMP, has 100 multiple-choice questions. This free practice bank also provides 100 powerplant questions with detailed explanations so you can drill the full range of subject areas.

How much time do I get and what score do I need to pass?

You are given 2 hours to complete the 100-question powerplant test, and you need a score of 70% to pass. The test is delivered by computer through PSI on the FAA airman knowledge testing system.

Is the Powerplant test the same as the General or Airframe test?

No. The mechanic certificate involves three separate FAA knowledge tests: General (AMG), Airframe (AMA), and Powerplant (AMP). The Powerplant test is its own 100-question exam focused on engine and propeller systems and is taken separately from the General and Airframe tests.

What does it cost to take the FAA Powerplant knowledge test?

The PSI testing fee for an FAA airman knowledge test is approximately $175. Confirm the current fee with PSI when you schedule, since fees can change and optional prep materials or retakes add cost.

What are the eligibility requirements to take the Powerplant test?

Eligibility is governed by 14 CFR Part 65. Candidates generally qualify by graduating from an FAA-certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School or by documenting the required practical maintenance experience, and they must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.

What subjects are covered on the FAA AMP test?

The Powerplant test follows the FAA-S-ACS-1 Powerplant ACS and covers reciprocating and turbine engines, ignition and starting, propellers, fuel metering and fuel systems, lubrication, electrical, induction/airflow/cooling, instruments, inspection, removal/installation/overhaul, fire protection, and exhaust and reverser systems.