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Where a torque tube is installed

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 13 of 16 on Flight Controls. ACS element AM.II.C.K6 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONIn a flight control system, where is a torque tube installed?

  1. AWhere an angular or twisting motion is needed
  2. BWhere a cable must change direction at a bulkhead
  3. CWhere straight push-pull motion is needed
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Where an angular or twisting motion is needed

  • A — correct A torque tube is installed where an angular or twisting motion is required in a control system, and it can transmit motion in opposite directions.
  • B — incorrect Cables are guided through bulkheads by fairleads and redirected by pulleys, not by torque tubes.
  • C — incorrect Straight push-pull motion between control system components is provided by push rods.

BACKGROUND

Flight control systems use several kinds of mechanical linkage, each suited to a particular motion. Push rods give push-pull motion as links between control system parts. Where an angular or twisting motion is needed in a control system, a torque tube is installed; a torque tube can be used to transmit motion in opposite directions. Cable drums are used primarily in trim tab systems, winding or unwinding as the trim tab control wheel is turned to actuate the trim tab cables. Simple flap systems are often operated manually by cables and torque tubes, and many smaller airplanes use flaps actuated by torque tubes and chains through a gear box driven by an electric motor.

STUDY TIP

Match the linkage to the motion: push rods for push-pull, torque tubes for twisting, cable drums for winding trim tab cables.

KEY POINTS

  • A torque tube handles angular or twisting motion in a control system.
  • It can transmit motion in opposite directions.
  • Push rods give push-pull motion; cable drums serve trim tab systems.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Torque Tubes"
  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Cable Drums"
  • sources/ama-airframe/ch02.txt "Flap Installation"
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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.