FAA Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA)Airframe StructuresEasy

A technician is identifying bolts during an inventory check and finds a bolt head marked with a single raised dash. According to standard AN bolt head marking conventions, what does this marking indicate?

  1. AAn NAS close-tolerance bolt
  2. BA corrosion-resistant steel bolt
  3. CAn AN standard steel bolt
  4. DAn aluminum alloy bolt
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. An AN standard steel bolt

A single raised dash on a bolt head identifies it as an AN standard steel bolt. NAS close-tolerance bolts typically use a recessed triangle or asterisk marking, corrosion-resistant steel bolts are marked with a cross or X, and aluminum alloy bolts are marked with two raised dashes.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. NAS close-tolerance bolts use a different marking, typically a recessed triangle or asterisk.
  • B. Corrosion-resistant steel bolts are marked with a cross or X, not a single dash.
  • D. Aluminum alloy bolts are marked with two raised dashes, not one.

AN Bolt Head Markings

Standardized markings stamped on AN bolt heads that identify the bolt's material and specification.

  • Single raised dash = AN standard steel bolt
  • Cross/X = corrosion-resistant steel bolt
  • Two raised dashes = aluminum alloy bolt
  • Asterisk or recessed triangle = NAS close-tolerance bolt

Memory trick: 'One dash, one common steel bolt.'

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