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Engine fire during the starting procedure

Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice question 3 of 8 on Engine Exhaust and Reverser Systems. ACS element AM.III.L.R4 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA fire develops in a reciprocating engine during the starting procedure. What is the first action to take?

  1. AContinue cranking to blow out the fire
  2. BShut off the fuel and wait for the fire to burn out
  3. CDirect CO2 into the engine exhaust outlet
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Continue cranking to blow out the fire

  • A — correct If an engine fire develops during the starting procedure, continue cranking to start the engine and blow out the fire; only if the engine does not start and the fire continues to burn is the start attempt discontinued.
  • B — incorrect Letting a fire burn itself out is never the prescribed action; the fireguard is standing by specifically to extinguish it if cranking does not.
  • C — incorrect The fireguard is trained to direct CO2 into the air intake of the engine, not the exhaust outlet, and that is done only after the start attempt is discontinued.

BACKGROUND

In all cases a fireguard should stand by with a carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguisher while the aircraft engine is being started, as a necessary precaution against fire during the starting procedure. The fireguard must be familiar with the induction system of the engine so that in case of fire they can direct the CO2 into the air intake of the engine to extinguish it. A fire could also occur in the exhaust system from liquid fuel being ignited in the cylinder and expelled during the normal rotation of the engine. If a fire develops during the starting procedure, continue cranking to start the engine and blow out the fire. If the engine does not start and the fire continues to burn, discontinue the start attempt and let the fireguard extinguish the fire with the available equipment.

STUDY TIP

Learn the sequence in order: keep cranking first, discontinue the start second, fireguard extinguishes third. Also remember the CO2 goes into the air intake, never the exhaust.

KEY POINTS

  • A fireguard with a CO2 extinguisher must stand by during every engine start.
  • A fire during start is first addressed by continuing to crank to blow it out.
  • If the engine will not start and the fire persists, stop the start and let the fireguard extinguish it.

SOURCES

  • sources/amp-powerplant/ch03.txt "Extinguishing Engine Fires"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-32B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Powerplant, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.