FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

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Prepare for the FAA Powerplant Written Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Practice this question and more.

If a full-flow oil filter is used on an aircraft engine, and the filter becomes completely clogged, what occurs?

The oil pump will stop functioning
The by-pass valve will open and the oil pump will supply unfiltered oil to the engine
The engine will shut down immediately
The oil cooler will bypass oil directly to the tank

The correct answer is: The by-pass valve will open and the oil pump will supply unfiltered oil to the engine

When a full-flow oil filter becomes completely clogged, the primary function of the bypass valve is activated. This is a critical design feature in full-flow filtration systems. The bypass valve allows the oil pump to redirect oil flow around the clogged filter, ensuring that oil continues to circulate and supply the engine. While the oil that reaches the engine may be unfiltered, this mechanism prevents a total loss of oil flow, which would lead to engine damage due to lack of lubrication. Maintaining oil flow is essential for engine operation, and the existence of the bypass valve is a safeguard against catastrophic engine failure. This feature is designed to prioritize engine lubrication over filtration when a filter is obstructed, allowing the engine to continue operating even under less than ideal conditions.