FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

Which parts are included in a distributor for an aircraft engine ignition system?

1. Capacitor and rotor

2. Block and rotor

3. Coil and condenser

4. Points and cover

The correct answer is: Block and rotor

In an aircraft engine ignition system, the distributor plays a crucial role in directing the high-voltage electrical current from the magneto to the appropriate spark plug at the right time. The correct answer identifies the components contained within a distributor as the block and rotor. The block, often referred to as the distributor body, serves as the structural component that houses various internal mechanisms. It is responsible for accommodating the rotor, which rotates within it. The rotor makes contact with the ignition leads that connect to the spark plugs, ensuring that each plug receives the current in a sequenced manner as the engine cycles. Understanding the function and layout of a distributor helps in troubleshooting ignition system issues, as the integrity of the rotor and block is essential for effective timing and distribution of the spark to the engine's cylinders. Misalignment, wear, or damage to either component can lead to poor engine performance or ignition failure. Other options include components that play roles in the ignition system but are not specifically parts of the distributor. For example, coils and condensers are related to the ignition system but serve different functions such as transforming voltage and smoothing electrical signals, respectively. Similarly, points and covers might pertain to other parts of the ignition system, but they do not fall under the category of