FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

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

1. Oil pressure, fuel flow, EGT

2. EGT, tachometer, oil pressure

3. Tachometer, fuel pressure, oil temperature

4. Fuel flow, engine speed, temperature gauge

The correct answer is: EGT, tachometer, oil pressure

When starting a turbine engine, the three primary instruments that need to be monitored closely are Engine Gas Temperature (EGT), tachometer, and oil pressure. Monitoring EGT is critical because it provides vital information about the combustion process. Excessive temperatures during startup can indicate issues such as lean fuel conditions or malfunctions that could potentially damage the engine. The tachometer is essential for measuring the rotational speed of the engine, as it indicates whether the engine is reaching its designed operating speeds and is properly starting up. Sudden or abnormal changes in RPM can be indicative of various problems. Lastly, oil pressure is also crucial, as it ensures that the engine components are being adequately lubricated. Low oil pressure during startup can lead to catastrophic engine failures due to inadequate lubrication, resulting in damage to critical components. These three parameters collectively provide a comprehensive view of the engine's health during the startup phase, ensuring that the aircraft is safe to operate.