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Reinstalling removed parts before weighing

Aviation Mechanic General (AMG) practice question 4 of 25 on Weight and Balance. ACS element AM.I.C.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

QUESTIONAn aircraft is about to be weighed after maintenance during which inspection plates, cowling, and fuel tank caps were removed. What should be done with these items?

  1. AWeigh them separately and enter their weight as tare
  2. BReplace them on the aircraft before weighing
  3. CLeave them off and add their weight mathematically afterward
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Replace them on the aircraft before weighing

  • A — incorrect Tare weight is support equipment such as chocks or jacks on the scales, not aircraft parts. Removed parts are reinstalled, not treated as tare.
  • B — correct The handbook lists inspection plates, oil and fuel tank caps, junction box covers, cowling, doors, and emergency exits among the parts that must be replaced before weighing.
  • C — incorrect These parts are included in the certificated empty weight and must be installed in their proper location when the aircraft is weighed.

BACKGROUND

Before weighing, the aircraft is inspected to see that all items included in the certificated empty weight are installed in their proper locations. Items not regularly carried in flight are removed, and baggage compartments are checked to be sure they are empty. All inspection plates, oil and fuel tank caps, junction box covers, cowling, doors, emergency exits, and other parts removed during maintenance are replaced. Doors, windows, and sliding canopies are placed in the normal flight position, and excess dirt, oil, grease, and moisture are removed.

STUDY TIP

Think of the aircraft as it flies: everything that is part of the empty weight installed, everything that is not removed.

KEY POINTS

  • Reinstall plates, caps, covers, cowling, and doors before weighing.
  • Remove items not regularly carried in flight.
  • Doors, windows, and canopies go in the normal flight position.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-30B ch06 "Preparing an Aircraft for Weighing - Other Considerations"
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MORE ON WEIGHT AND BALANCE

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.