FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP)PropellersEasy
A mechanic finds a small chordwise nick on the leading edge of an aluminum propeller blade during a 100-hour inspection. What is the correct initial course of action?
- AApply a patch of aluminum tape over the nick and return the aircraft to service
- BConsult the propeller manufacturer's data to determine if the nick can be blended or stop-drilled within allowable limits
- CIgnore the nick if the aircraft has flown less than 50 hours since the last inspection
- DImmediately replace the propeller, since nicks cannot be repaired on aluminum blades
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Consult the propeller manufacturer's data to determine if the nick can be blended or stop-drilled within allowable limits
Minor nicks and scratches on aluminum propeller blades are often repairable by blending (dressing out) or stop-drilling within limits specified by the propeller manufacturer's maintenance manual. Repairs must never exceed published depth, width, or location limits, and are performed by trained personnel following approved data.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Tape is not an approved structural repair for propeller blade damage.
- C. Flight hours since inspection are irrelevant to whether a nick needs addressing.
- D. Many nicks are repairable and do not require blade replacement.
Propeller Blade Nick Repair
Minor nicks on aluminum propeller blades may be blended or stop-drilled within limits specified by the manufacturer's approved data, preventing stress risers and crack propagation.
- Repairs must follow manufacturer's allowable limits chart
- Stop-drilling can arrest crack propagation from a nick
- Nicks in high-stress areas (like near the tip or on leading edge) are more critical
Memory trick: Small nick? Check the BOOK before you touch the blade