AMP - Aviation Maintenance Technician Powerplant Practice Exam

During routine maintenance, what is primarily checked to assess the condition of the oil?

1. Color and clarity

2. Volume and viscosity

3. Temperature and pressure

4. Age and source

The correct answer is: Color and clarity

The primary aspects of the condition of oil during routine maintenance are color and clarity. These characteristics can indicate the oil's health and whether it may be contaminated or degraded. A change in color, such as darkening or cloudiness, can suggest the presence of contaminants or that the oil is breaking down, which can affect its lubricating properties. Clarity relates to the presence of particulates or moisture, highlighting potential issues within the engine that require further investigation. While volume and viscosity are certainly important factors in oil maintenance, they are more focused on ensuring that there is enough oil and that it meets the required thickness for effective lubrication during operation. Temperature and pressure, on the other hand, are critical for monitoring engine performance but are not direct indicators of the oil’s condition during routine checks. Age and source of the oil can provide context regarding its lifecycle but do not necessarily reflect its current condition in the system. Therefore, assessing color and clarity serves as a primary and straightforward method for evaluating oil health during maintenance.