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Print tolerance when none is shown on a dimension

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 4 of 15 on Aircraft Drawings. ACS element AM.I.B.K2 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA mechanic is checking a machined part against its drawing. One dimension on the drawing has no tolerance shown on its dimension line. Which tolerance applies to that dimension?

  1. ANo tolerance; the dimension must be met exactly
  2. BThe print tolerance given in the title block
  3. CThe tolerance shown on the nearest dimensioned feature
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. The print tolerance given in the title block

  • A — incorrect The handbook provides for a general print tolerance precisely so that undimensioned tolerances are not treated as exact figures.
  • B — correct A print tolerance, usually found in the title block, is a general tolerance for noncritical dimensions; where a tolerance is not shown on a dimension line, the print tolerance applies.
  • C — incorrect Tolerances on other dimension lines apply only to their own dimensions; the general print tolerance covers the rest.

BACKGROUND

After determining the shape of an object from a drawing, the mechanic determines its size from the dimensions and tolerances given. Not every dimension carries its own tolerance. A print tolerance, usually found in the title block, is a general tolerance that can be applied to parts where the dimensions are noncritical. Where a tolerance is not shown on a dimension line, the print tolerance applies. The handbook notes that standard tolerances such as plus or minus 0.010 or plus or minus 1/32 may be given in the title block to apply throughout the drawing.

STUDY TIP

Before deciding whether a part conforms, read the title block for the general print tolerance and apply it to every dimension that has no tolerance of its own.

KEY POINTS

  • A print tolerance is a general tolerance usually found in the title block.
  • It applies to any dimension that has no tolerance shown on its dimension line.
  • Standard values such as plus or minus 0.010 or 1/32 may be stated there.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch04 "Reading and Interpreting Drawings"
  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch04 "Allowances & Tolerances"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-30B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – General, 14 CFR part 43 and part 65. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.