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Dry wash exterior cleaning method

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 1 of 31 on Cleaning and Corrosion Control. ACS element AM.I.G.K1 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONWhich exterior cleaning method is used to remove airport film, dust, and small accumulations of dirt when the use of liquids is neither desirable nor practical?

  1. AWet wash with an emulsion cleaner
  2. BMechanical polishing
  3. CDry wash
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Dry wash

  • A — incorrect Wet wash uses liquid cleaning compounds applied by spray or mop followed by a high-pressure water rinse, so it is the opposite of a method chosen when liquids are undesirable.
  • B — incorrect Polishing restores luster and removes oxidation and corrosion; it is usually performed after the surfaces have already been cleaned, not as the method for removing dust and airport film.
  • C — correct Dry wash is the method described for removing airport film, dust, and small accumulations of dirt and soil when liquids are neither desirable nor practical; the materials are applied with spray, mops, or cloths and removed by dry mopping or wiping.

BACKGROUND

The handbook lists three methods of cleaning the aircraft exterior: wet wash, dry wash, and polishing. Wet wash removes oil, grease, carbon deposits, and most soils, but not corrosion or oxide films. Dry wash handles airport film, dust, and light dirt when liquids are impractical, but it is not suitable for heavy deposits of carbon, grease, or oil, especially in engine exhaust areas. Polishing restores luster to painted and unpainted surfaces and is normally done after cleaning.

STUDY TIP

Learn what each of the three exterior methods removes and what it cannot remove; test questions often ask for the method by describing the soil.

KEY POINTS

  • Three exterior cleaning methods: wet wash, dry wash, polishing
  • Dry wash removes airport film, dust, and light dirt without liquids
  • Dry wash is not suitable for heavy carbon, grease, or oil deposits

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch08 "Exterior Cleaning"
Practice the Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) test →Timed 60-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON CLEANING AND CORROSION CONTROL

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.