V-type engine bank angle

Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice question 1 of 13 on Reciprocating Engines. ACS element AM.III.A.K1 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONIn a V-type aircraft engine, the two banks of cylinders are generally set how far apart?

A30 degrees
B120 degrees
C60 degrees

Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. 60 degrees

A — incorrect No 30-degree bank angle is given for V-type engines; the figure stated is 60 degrees.
B — incorrect Doubling the stated angle does not match the handbook, which gives 60 degrees as the general spread between the two banks.
C — correct The handbook states that in V-type engines the cylinders are arranged in two inline banks generally set 60 degrees apart.

BACKGROUND

Reciprocating engines are classified either by cylinder arrangement (inline, V-type, radial, and opposed) or by method of cooling (liquid cooled or air cooled). In a V-type engine the cylinders sit in two inline banks generally set 60 degrees apart, and most such engines have 12 cylinders. These engines are designated by the letter V followed by a dash and the piston displacement in cubic inches, as in V-1710. The type saw most of its use during the Second World War and is now largely limited to older aircraft.

STUDY TIP

Learn the four cylinder arrangements and one identifying detail for each; the V-type is remembered by its 60-degree banks and its displacement-based designation.

KEY POINTS

V-type engines use two inline banks of cylinders generally set 60 degrees apart.
Most V-type engines have 12 cylinders and may be liquid or air cooled.
The designation is a V, a dash, and the piston displacement in cubic inches.

SOURCES

FAA-H-8083-32B ch01 "V-Type Engines"

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