FAA Aviation Mechanic Powerplant (AMP)Fuel, Induction and LubricationMedium
An aircraft's engine oil records show that 3 quarts of oil were added after a 6-hour cross-country flight, and no leaks were found during inspection. What is the engine's oil consumption rate in quarts per hour?
- A0.5 quart per hour
- B2.0 quarts per hour
- C0.3 quart per hour
- D1.5 quarts per hour
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 0.5 quart per hour
Oil consumption rate is calculated by dividing the quarts added by the flight hours: 3 quarts ÷ 6 hours = 0.5 quart per hour. This figure is compared against the manufacturer's allowable consumption limit to assess engine condition.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 2.0 does not match the given division of 3 by 6.
- C. 0.3 would result from dividing by roughly 10 hours, not the 6 hours given.
- D. 1.5 would result from multiplying rather than dividing.
Oil Consumption Rate
The amount of oil an engine uses per hour of operation, calculated as quarts of oil added divided by flight hours, used to assess engine wear.
- Formula: Quarts Added ÷ Flight Hours = Quarts per Hour
- Compared to manufacturer's maximum allowable consumption limit
- Rising consumption trends can indicate worn rings, valve guides, or seals
Memory trick: Quarts added over hours flown tells you how thirsty the engine is.