FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

What are the three primary instruments to monitor when starting a turbine engine?

1. Oil pressure, fuel flow, temperature

2. EGT, fuel flow, engine pressure

3. EGT, tachometer, oil pressure

4. Tachometer, total pressure, vibrations

The correct answer is: EGT, tachometer, oil pressure

The three primary instruments to monitor when starting a turbine engine include the exhaust gas temperature (EGT), tachometer, and oil pressure. Monitoring the exhaust gas temperature is crucial as it indicates how efficiently the engine is operating and helps prevent overheating, which can lead to engine failure. The tachometer is essential for confirming that the engine is reaching the proper operational speed, providing feedback on the engine's performance during the start sequence. Oil pressure is also a vital indicator; it ensures that the engine's lubrication system is functioning correctly. Insufficient oil pressure can lead to serious engine damage if not monitored, as it can indicate a lubrication failure that might result in increased friction among moving parts. Each of these three instruments plays a critical role in ensuring a safe and successful engine start, making option C the most appropriate choice.