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Wire slack at instrument connectors

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 24 of 24 on Aircraft Electrical Systems. ACS element AM.II.K.K10 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONHow much slack should the wiring at a panel-mounted unit's terminal lugs or connector have?

  1. AEnough to allow two reterminations without replacing wires
  2. BEnough to allow one retermination, plus a drip loop of 2 inches
  3. CNone; the wire should be pulled taut to prevent chafing
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Enough to allow two reterminations without replacing wires

  • A — correct Wiring at terminal lugs or connectors should have sufficient slack to allow two reterminations without replacement of the wires.
  • B — incorrect The stated allowance is two reterminations, and no fixed drip loop length is specified with it.
  • C — incorrect Wiring is installed so that bundles and individual wires are not under tension, not pulled tight.

BACKGROUND

Wiring should be installed with enough slack that bundles and individual wires are never under tension. Wires connected to movable or shock-mounted equipment must be long enough to allow full travel without putting tension on the bundle. Wiring at terminal lugs or connectors should have sufficient slack to allow two reterminations without replacement of wires, and this slack is in addition to the drip loop and the allowance for movable equipment. Slack at each end also permits replacement of terminals, prevents mechanical strain on wires and supports, and allows equipment to be shifted for alignment, servicing, and removal of dust covers while installed. Wire groups or bundles normally should not deflect more than one half inch between support points.

STUDY TIP

When you pull an instrument, look for slack measured in reterminations, not inches; two reterminations is the number to remember.

KEY POINTS

  • Wiring is never installed under tension.
  • Connector and lug slack must allow two reterminations.
  • That slack is additional to the drip loop and movement allowance.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch09.txt "Slack in Wire Bundles"
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MORE ON AIRCRAFT ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.