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Effect of a partially applied preservative

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 18 of 31 on Cleaning and Corrosion Control. ACS element AM.I.G.K8 · 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 preservative compound has been applied to only part of the complicated fittings in a wheel well. According to the handbook, what is the effect of a partially applied preservative?

  1. AIt tends to mask corrosion rather than prevent it
  2. BIt protects the treated portion and leaves the rest unaffected
  3. CIt accelerates corrosion by trapping brake heat
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. It tends to mask corrosion rather than prevent it

  • A — correct The handbook states that in the wheel well area, where complete coverage is hard to attain, a partially applied preservative tends to mask corrosion rather than prevent it.
  • B — incorrect The handbook does not describe partial coverage as harmless; it warns that partial preservative application hides corrosion.
  • C — incorrect Brake heat is the reason preservatives cannot be used on some main landing gear wheels; it is not the effect of partial application.

BACKGROUND

The wheel well and landing gear area probably receives more punishment than any other area on the aircraft from mud, water, salt, gravel, and flying debris. Because of the many complicated shapes, assemblies, and fittings, complete paint film coverage is difficult to attain and maintain. A partially applied preservative tends to mask corrosion rather than prevent it. Inspection of this area focuses on magnesium wheels, exposed rigid tubing at B-nuts and ferrules, exposed switches, crevices between stiffeners and lower skins, axle interiors, and exposed strut and linkage surfaces.

STUDY TIP

Preservative compounds only work with full coverage; on complex areas, treat a patchy coat as a warning sign rather than as protection.

KEY POINTS

  • Wheel wells get the most punishment from mud, water, salt, and gravel
  • Complete paint or preservative coverage is hard to maintain there
  • A partially applied preservative masks corrosion instead of preventing it

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch08 "Wheel Well and Landing Gear"
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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.