Unit 2 – FAA & Manufacturers Maintenance Publications (Test Review)

1.  What is the difference between approved data and acceptable data? (List 2)

Approved Data is required to be used to perform major repairs and alteration.

Acceptable Data is required for all all other maintenance tasks

What is a TCDS?

A Type Certificate Data Sheet is the FAA document that defines an aircraft’s approved type design and limits. It’s used during 100-hour/annual checks to verify the airplane matches what was certificated. Any deviation needs an AD, STC, or Form 337.

What is an AS?

An Aircraft Specification is the older format of a TCDS on some legacy models. It serves the same job as a TCDS and is used the same way for conformity checks.

What can you find in a TCDS? (Roughly 13)

1. Make, Model, and Serial Number

2. Production Year

3. Take Off Weight Limits

4. Taxi Weight Limits

5. Minimum Fuel Requirement

6. Propeller and Engine Compatibility

7. Zero Fuel Amount

8. Datum Point

9. Flight Control Travel (for example, aileron movement)

10. CG Range

11. Zero Fuel Weight (Weight without Fuel)

12. It notes additional weight or loading limits

13. It may include other model-specific items as needed

Where do you find which propellers and engines are eligible for an airplane?

In the aircraft TCDS. You do not use the engine TCDS or the propeller TCDS to decide what can be installed on that aircraft.

What do very old aircraft use instead of a TCDS?

Aircraft Specification (AS) (Before January 1958) or an Aircraft Listing (for 1950s-or-earlier models). Use it like a TCDS for conformity

What documents must be on the aircraft?

Airworthiness Certificate (must be displayed) and Registration Certificate (must be on board).

What is the purpose of an Airworthiness Directive (AD)?

To correct an unsafe condition by requiring inspections, limits, or actions.

Is an AD approved data?

Yes. ADs are legally enforceable; if they incorporate a service bulletin, that material is treated as part of the AD.

Who is responsible for AD compliance?

The owner/operator is primarily responsible; the mechanic ensures it’s complied with and recorded.

Is an “AD log” required, and is AD status a permanent record?

A separate AD log isn’t required, but you must keep the current status of all ADs; that record is permanent and transfers with the aircraft.

What if the annual inspection is expired—can you fly to maintenance?

Yes, with a Special Flight Permit (ferry permit) from the FSDO to a base where maintenance will be done. No joy flying.

Do you tear up the airworthiness certificate if the aircraft is unairworthy?

No. The certificate remains valid; you just can’t operate until the aircraft meets its type design and is safe.

What forms can an AD take? (List 5)

It can require

1. inspection

2. replacement

3. modification

4. limits/placards

5. or other actions (and may reference an SB).

If an aircraft sat for decades and is not airworthy, do you tear up the airworthiness certificate?

No. A standard airworthiness certificate doesn’t expire; it stays in effect unless surrendered, suspended, or revoked (14 CFR 21.181). You just may not operate the airplane until it’s airworthy again (14 CFR 91.7). To move it, get a Special Flight Permit (14 CFR 21.197). If you want it off the airplane, surrender it to the FAA—don’t rip it up; a replacement is issued only if it’s lost/damaged (FAA Order 8130.2K, FAA FAQ).

What is a TSO?

Technical Standard Order, A TSO is an FAA minimum performance standard for a part. It tells the maker what quality/performance the part must meet.

What kinds of items does a TSO cover?

Things like seat belts, tires, and batteries. It sets the standard the manufacturer must build to.

If a part is TSO’d, can I use it on any aircraft?

No. It still must be approved for that specific aircraft and installed per its data.

What approvals can make a part “airworthy” to install? (Name each and what it means.) (List 4)

OEM: The maker’s original part listed for that aircraft (matches IPC/TCDS).

PMA: FAA-approved replacement part; use only if the eligibility says it fits your aircraft.

STC-approved: A part that’s part of an STC mod; install exactly per the STC/ICAs.

TSO article: Built to a FAA standard, but it still needs aircraft-specific installation approval (e.g., via OEM data or an STC)

What is an OEM part?

An Original Equipment Manufacturer part made to the aircraft’s type design.

What is a PMA part?

A Parts Manufacturer Approval item—an FAA-approved replacement/alt part for a specific use.

What extra step does a TSO part need to be “enough” for installation

It needs installation approval for your aircraft. You get that if one of these is true:

1. The OEM aircraft data authorizes it, or,

2. An STC covers your model, or,

3. An FAA field approval (Form 337 with approved data) is issued.,

Then update W&B/equipment list and log the install. TSO alone is not installation approval. 

What is STC?

It means STC — Supplemental Type Certificate (approval for a major change to type design).

Can an STC have more than one owner for the same mod?

Yes. More than one holder can be approved by the FAA.

Are all manufacturer manuals FAA-approved?

No. Not all are approved.

2.  In order to use a manual in the maintenance of aircraft, what requirements must the manual conform to?

• The manual must be complete, readable, and at the latest revision.

• It must conform to the aircraft’s type design.

• It must be FAA-approved or FAA-acceptable for the maintenance being performed.

Explanation:
Most manuals (maintenance, IPC, overhaul) are FAA-acceptable data, but some are FAA-approved. They must always be current and applicable to ensure compliance with 14 CFR Part 43.

(the manual must be current and complete)

What is the status of the Structural Repair Manual (SRM)?

The SRM is FAA-approved.

What is a CMM and give a simple example note.

A Component Maintenance Manual covers bench repair for a single unit. Example: some washer gaskets are one-time use—replace them when the joint is opened.

3. What systems are used by manufactures to indicate the current status of their manuals?

All manuals must have their revision status tracked including effective date

• Revision number/letter and revision date shown on the front matter or “Effective Changes/Supersedure” page.

• List of Effective Pages (LEP) to verify each page’s current revision.

• Record of Revisions / Temporary Revisions sections listing issued changes

Explanation:
These mechanisms let a technician confirm they’re using the latest, controlled version of the manual.

4. What formats may maintenance information be found / used?

There is not required media format;

1. manual may be paper

2. microfiche

3. or electronic copy

5. Why should a technician dispose of uncontrolled copies of the maintenance manual at the end of the day?

Uncontrolled documents should be disposed of to prevent there use since they are incomplete and lack revision status tracking

• To prevent use of outdated/uncurrent procedures; only current, controlled data may be used.

• Part 145 systems must establish and maintain current technical data and control documents.

• To maintain document control and avoid bypassing the approved electronic/manual system.

Explanation:
Disposing of uncontrolled printouts supports document control and keeps technicians working from the latest, approved/acceptable manuals (incl. electronic systems).

6. What type of information is found in a maintenance/service manual? (List 7)

Maintenance manuals contain information about…

1. the theory of operation

2. servicing

3. parts replacement

4. repairs

5. adjustments

6. operational checks

7. and inspections

7. What is an IPC and how is it used?

What it is:
The Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) is the manufacturer’s catalog with exploded views that show each item’s name, location, quantity, effectivity, and part number.

How it’s used:
Use the IPC to identify and order the correct parts; use the AMM (Aircraft Maintenance Manual) or Overhaul Manual for procedures—the IPC is not procedural/repair data.

(The illustrated parts catalog is used to identify the correct parts to be installed on an aircraft)

What is AMM?

Aircraft Maintenance Manual

What is SRM?

Structural Repair Manual.

What is IPC?

Illustrated Part Catalog. 

What is WD?

Wiring Diagram (manual)

8. Out of the following documents, which one is not an approved reference for performing work on an aircraft and returning it to service?

   a.     AMM

   b.     SRM

   c.     IPC

   d.     WD

The IPC (c) is not an approved reference—it’s only for parts identification, not procedures or return-to-service.

9. What information is used to identify the particular configuration of an aircraft in the AMM and IPC since the documents cover several different configurations?

•Make, model, and production year.

•Serial number

•Modifications (STC-Based) completed during or after manufacture, such as STC-based mods

•Trim and paint code data

•Data plate “dash numbers” or other production information

(The aircraft serial number is used to determine effectivity and differentiate information in several manuals; this includes the service manual, maintenance manual, illustrated parts catalog, and structural repair manual.)

10. How are the diagrams in the IPC normally presented to aid the mechanic in identifying the correct part?

• Exploded-view drawings that facilitate locating each part in the assembly.

• Each part has a numeric identifier/callout on the drawing.

• Those numbers match a descriptive parts list with item name, manufacturer P/N, and quantity.

(IPC diagrams are typically shown in an exploded view to help aid in part identification and orientation.)

11.  What type of Type Certificated products will have an Overhaul Manual?

Type-certificated engines and propellers (not whole airframes) have Overhaul Manuals—e.g., Lycoming engine overhaul manuals and Hartzell propeller overhaul manuals.

(Engines and propellers will have an overhaul manual)

What is CMM?

Component Maintenance Manual

What is OEM?

Original Equipment Manufactor

What is LRU?

Line-Replaceable Units

12. What type of products will use a Component Maintenance Manual (CMM)?

Subassemblies and accessories will often have specific CMM. This could be for avionics equipment, wheel assemblies, heaters, and actuators.

13. Are Service Bulletins mandatory?

No. Service Bulletins are not mandatory for Part 91 unless an AD or an approved/accepted program makes them required.

(No, service bulletins are not mandatory for most circumstances)

14. When are Service Bulletins mandatory for aircraft operators? (List 2)

For part 91 aircraft Service Bulletins are only mandatory if it referenced by an AD.

For part 121 & 135 aircraft Service Bulletins marked by manufacture as mandatory are required to be complied with.

15. What document(s) can be referenced when designing a sheet metal repair for installation on an aircraft? (List 3)

The Structural Repair Manual is FAA approved resource when designing a sheet metal repair.

AC 43.13-1B can be used as well but it is only acceptable data and should not be the primary reference when designing a major repair.

Some AMM will have an approved structures section contained in them.

16. Which person is delegated the authority to design and approve repairs under Part 183?

Designated Engineering Representative

(A designated Engineering Representative is allowed to generate approved data for use in repairs)

17. When can / should AC 43.13 – 1B be referenced in a logbook entry?

AC 43.13 - 1B should be used to support other approved documentation or as the primary reference for minor repair work

Use AC 43.13-1B in the logbook whenever you actually used it to complete the job.

HOWEVER………

AC 43.13-1B is acceptable data, not approved data. It should not be used by itself.

You can use it when there is no OEM ICA. ICA means Instructions for Continued Airworthiness.

Use it only on non-pressurized areas of civil aircraft. It is generally for minor repairs.

Before using it, make sure it fits this product and repair. It must be directly applicable. It must not conflict with the manufacturer’s data.

Sometimes an AD will point to a specific paragraph in AC 43.13-1B. If it does, follow that paragraph.

18. Other than the interconnect wiring, what other information is found in a Wiring Diagram? (List 3)

Wiring Diagrams will often contain electrical parts lists that supersede the IPC.

They will also contain troubleshooting flow charts

and standard electrical practices

19. What document is used to approve modifications, special inspections, installation of new parts or any other maintenance changes needed by the manufacture?

Service Bulletin (SB):

• A Service Bulletin may be issued as “Mandatory.” (Otherwise it is not mandatory)

• It is issued to provide specific info for maintenance, inspection, service, testing, repair, or monitoring on the aircraft.

• For most Part 91, SBs are not mandatory (but highly recommended).

• If an AD incorporates the SB, it is mandatory.
  
  (Manufactures use Service Bulletins to release maintenance data that modifies the standard published manuals. This can be for parts replacement, maintenance procedures, alterations, or inspections.)

20. What systems are used by manufacture to communicate with customers with the focus on informing them of changes to product offering, clarifying procedures, or any other information as necessary?

Service Letters or Service Information Letters are used to help inform customers of issues and changes to the manufacturer’s products. They usually do not contain work instruction but are more informational in nature and will often reference approved work instructions in the AMM or SB.

21. What is the advantage of a manufacture using ATA code 100?

• It standardizes indexing of manuals across manufacturers/operators.

• It lets techs transition easily between aircraft because manuals use the same “Dewey Decimal–style” structure.

(ATA 100 makes it easier for technicians to locate maintenance information across all different publications from one manufacture. It is also reducing manual workload  when moving between different type of aircrafts.)

22. How are manuals organized when using ATA code 100?

ATA 100 is set of the double digits number.

The first is the chapter which identifies the system being used (i.e….. Chapter 32-Landing Gear).

The seconds set of numbers is the section which identifies what subsystem in the chapter (i.e. 32-20 Nose Gear)

The last set of numbers identifies the specific task. The is manufactures specific. (i,e, 32-20-05 might be the nose gear actuator removal/installation instructions

23. In addition to organizing the maintenance manual, what other documents may be organized using ATA spec 100? (List 5)

1. The IPC

2. SRM

3. CMM

4. SB

5. and MEL can be organized following ATA spec 100.

24. Look up the following ATA codes:

a. 05

• 05 Periodic Inspections

  • 00 General

  • 10 Time Limits

  • 20 Scheduled Maintenance Checks

  • 30 [As Required]

  • 40 [As Required]

  • 50 Unscheduled Maintenance Checks

24. Look up the following ATA codes:

b. 12

Servicing - Routine Maintenance

24. Look up the following ATA codes:

c. 20

Standard Practices—Airframe.

(Standard Practices - Airframe)

24. Look up the following ATA codes:

d. 27

Flight Controls.

(Flight Controls)

24. Look up the following ATA codes:

e. 32

Landing Gear.

(Landing Gear)

24. Look up the following ATA codes:

f. 51

Standard Practices & Structures (General).

(Standard Practices and Structures - General)

24. Look up the following ATA codes:

g. 71

Power Plant.

(Powerplant - General)

25. How are Advisory Circulars used by the FAA (NOT JUST MECHANICAL)

Advisory Circulars and the FAA recommendation on how to comply with regulations and perform different tasks related to all aspects of aviation including…

1. manufacturing

2. operations

3. maintenance

4. and airport operation.

This is a recommendation only and has no regulatory enforcement behind it; instead it is regarded as a best practice type of document.

26. Are Advisory Circulars mandatory?

Compliance with Advisory Circulars are not mandatory

(No, Advisory Circulars are not mandatory. However, care should be exercised when deviating from an AC because of the increased scrutiny from the FAA.)

27. When performing an annual inspection, what type of information should a mechanic reference in the Aircraft’s Type Certificate Data Sheet?

The mechanic should do a conformity check. 

• The exact model/series & serial effectivity for the airplane.

• Approved engine/propeller combinations and related limits. Federal Aviation Administration

• Operating limits & required placards/equipment. Federal Aviation Administration

• Max weight and CG range (W&B limits). Federal Aviation Administration

Note (per your slide):
Do a TCDS conformity check during the annual; any deviation from the TCDS needs an AD, STC, or Form 337 to be legal.

(The Aircraft TCDS will list required equipment and marking. Any change to the equipment or marking are considered a major alteration and must have the associated documentation to be airworthy. The equipment covered includes the engine and propeller. The TCDS is not the only list required equipment.)

Extra: What number of a Type Standard Order for a Seat Belt

TSO-C22