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Inspecting flap and spoiler recesses

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 4 of 31 on Cleaning and Corrosion Control. ACS element AM.I.G.K4 · 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 inspecting wing flap and spoiler recesses for corrosion. In what position should the flaps and spoilers be during this inspection?

  1. AFully retracted, as normally stowed
  2. BHalf extended to expose the hinge line
  3. CFully deployed
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Fully deployed

  • A — incorrect The recesses are normally retracted, which is exactly why dirt and water collect there unnoticed; inspecting in the retracted position defeats the purpose.
  • B — incorrect The handbook specifies the fully deployed position, not a partial extension.
  • C — correct The handbook directs that flap and spoiler recesses be inspected with the spoilers and flaps in the fully deployed position, because the recesses are hidden when the surfaces are retracted.

BACKGROUND

The handbook lists several corrosion-prone areas common to all aircraft, which should be cleaned, inspected, and treated more frequently than other areas. Wing flap and spoiler recesses are among them because dirt and water may collect there unnoticed while the surfaces are retracted. For that reason these recesses are inspected with the spoilers and flaps in the fully deployed position. Other listed trouble areas include exhaust trail areas, battery compartments, bilges, wheel wells, water entrapment areas, engine frontal areas, and piano-type hinges.

STUDY TIP

For each corrosion-prone area, note the one specific inspection instruction the handbook attaches to it; those details are what get tested.

KEY POINTS

  • Flap and spoiler recesses trap dirt and water while retracted
  • Inspect them with flaps and spoilers fully deployed
  • Corrosion-prone areas get more frequent cleaning, inspection, and treatment

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch08 "Wing Flap & Spoiler Recesses"
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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.