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Engine Fuel Systems: Powerplant practice questions

Five original questions on engine fuel systems, each with the answer, an explanation and an FAA-H-8083-32B page reference.

1. Which kind of older fuel system was more prone to vapor lock?
  1. Gravity-feed systems
  2. Pressure-feed systems
  3. Fuel-injected systems
Show answer

A. Gravity-feed systems All fuel systems should be designed so vapor lock cannot take place.

Reference: FAA-H-8083-32B, Ch. 2, p. 2-1

2. How is the chance of vapor lock reduced in fuel line routing?
  1. Lines are kept away from heat, and sharp bends and steep rises are avoided
  2. Lines are routed next to the exhaust
  3. Lines are made as long as possible
Show answer

A. Lines are kept away from heat, and sharp bends and steep rises are avoided Fuel volatility is also controlled in manufacture.

Reference: FAA-H-8083-32B, Ch. 2, p. 2-2

3. Besides supplying pressure, what does the boost pump do for vapor in the fuel?
  1. It releases vapor, which moves up through the tank and out the vents
  2. It condenses the vapor
  3. It routes vapor to the engine
Show answer

A. It releases vapor, which moves up through the tank and out the vents Pressurizing the lines also reduces vapor formation.

Reference: FAA-H-8083-32B, Ch. 2, p. 2-2

4. A turbine fuel heater that uses engine bleed air is called what?
  1. Air-to-liquid exchanger
  2. Liquid-to-liquid exchanger
  3. Fuel/oil cooler
Show answer

A. Air-to-liquid exchanger The type that uses engine oil is a liquid-to-liquid exchanger.

Reference: FAA-H-8083-32B, Ch. 2, p. 2-42

5. What is the carburetor fuel strainer?
  1. A fine mesh screen all fuel passes through on entry
  2. A magnet in the float bowl
  3. A paper element in the air filter
Show answer

A. A fine mesh screen all fuel passes through on entry It must be removed and cleaned at scheduled intervals.

Reference: FAA-H-8083-32B, Ch. 2, p. 2-16

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What does the Powerplant test cover on engine fuel systems?

The Aviation Mechanic Powerplant ACS lists engine fuel systems as one of its areas. The FAA reference for this material is FAA-H-8083-32B.