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Purpose of a cable connector

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 8 of 16 on Flight Controls. ACS element AM.II.C.K2 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhat is the purpose of a cable connector in an aircraft flight control system?

  1. ATo let a cable length be quickly connected or disconnected
  2. BTo automatically maintain a given tension in the cable system
  3. CTo change the direction in which a control cable moves
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. To let a cable length be quickly connected or disconnected

  • A — correct Cable connectors are used in some systems so that a cable length can be quickly connected to or disconnected from the system.
  • B — incorrect Automatic maintenance of cable tension is the job of a cable tension regulator, not a connector.
  • C — incorrect Pulleys guide cables and change the direction of cable movement; connectors do not.

BACKGROUND

In addition to turnbuckles, cable connectors are used in some flight control systems. Their function is to allow a length of cable to be quickly connected to or disconnected from the system, which simplifies maintenance and component removal. One type in use is the spring-type connector. Turnbuckles, by contrast, are fitted in the cable assembly to make minor adjustments in cable length and to adjust cable tension. Tension regulators, which consist of a compression spring and a locking mechanism, are what maintain a given cable tension automatically on some large aircraft.

STUDY TIP

Keep the three cable-run devices separate in your mind: connectors for quick disconnect, turnbuckles for length and tension adjustment, and tension regulators for automatic tension.

KEY POINTS

  • A cable connector lets a cable length be quickly connected or disconnected.
  • Turnbuckles adjust cable length and tension, not quick disconnection.
  • Tension regulators, not connectors, maintain tension automatically.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Cable Connectors"
  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Turnbuckles"
  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Tension Regulators"
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MORE ON FLIGHT CONTROLS

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.