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Transverse crack in an aluminum blade

Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice question 5 of 10 on Propellers. ACS element AM.III.M.K5 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONDuring inspection of an aluminum propeller blade, a transverse crack of any size is found. What action does the handbook require?

  1. AThe blade must be rejected
  2. BThe blade may fly until the next annual
  3. CThe crack may be blended out and dressed smooth
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. The blade must be rejected

  • A — correct A transverse crack or flaw of any size in an aluminum propeller or blade is cause for rejection.
  • B — incorrect No allowance is made to continue operating with a transverse crack; it is cause for rejection regardless of size.
  • C — incorrect Blending is not permitted for a transverse crack, and no repairs at all are allowed to the shanks of aluminum-alloy adjustable-pitch blades.

BACKGROUND

Metal propellers and blades are susceptible to fatigue failure that starts at the bottom of sharp nicks, cuts, and scratches, so they are inspected frequently and carefully. Aluminum propellers and blades are inspected for cracks and other flaws, and a transverse crack or flaw of any size is cause for rejection. Multiple deep nicks and gouges on the leading edge and face of a blade are also cause for rejection. Dye penetrant or fluorescent dye penetrant is used to confirm suspected cracks, and any unusual condition revealed by inspection is referred to the manufacturer. No repairs are permitted to the shanks, or hub ends, of aluminum-alloy adjustable-pitch blades.

STUDY TIP

Learn the absolute rejection items for aluminum blades: a transverse crack of any size, and multiple deep nicks or gouges on the leading edge and face.

KEY POINTS

  • A transverse crack or flaw of any size in an aluminum blade is cause for rejection.
  • Dye penetrant or fluorescent dye penetrant confirms suspected cracks.
  • No repairs are permitted to the shanks of aluminum-alloy adjustable-pitch blades.

SOURCES

  • sources/amp-powerplant/ch07.txt "Aluminum Propeller Inspection"
  • FAA-H-8083-32 ch07, Propeller Inspection
Practice the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) test →Timed 100-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
MORE ON PROPELLERS

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.