RECIP TECHNOLOGY
Back to the Basics
Reciprocating engine theory and operation
is essential in AMT training
By Steve Hankle
Steve Hankle has
been an Airframe
& Powerplant
instructor at
Redstone College
in Denver for more
than 12 years. For
more information
visit www.
redstone.edu.
26
L
ooking back 40 years, I am thankful for having had the opportunity
to work on aircraft that used large
radial engines. My introduction to
the R-2800 radial engine was during my enlistment in the Navy. It was not
until my enrollment at an aircraft mechanic
school that I was actually schooled in the
theory and operation of reciprocating engines.
General aviation, the sport pilot category, and
unmanned vehicles all require technicians
who are able to troubleshoot and repair reciprocating engines.
According to the General Aviation
Manufacturers Association (GAMA) there
are an estimated 157,123 aircraft powered by
reciprocating engines certified by the FAA in
the United States — from sport pilot, to home-
November/December 2013
Juan Rodgriguez, a
Redstone College
student, works on a
reciprocating engine,
a core part of the
A&P; training.
built, to old War Birds still flying.
At the same time, many in the aviation
industry predict a shortage of skilled AMTs
due to the retirement of the Vietnam generation — the very technicians who were focused
on reciprocating engines as the mainstay of
their training. There are an estimated 5,000
airports in the United States available for
general aviation flight operations, and this
number is growing. These factors illustrate the
need for trained technicians to fill the void.
As an instructor at Redstone College, I see
students come through this facility who want
to focus on the new technology — the leadingedge technology — which is great. But we
stress the importance of learning basic reciprocating engine theory as an essential piece
of training for today's AMT. With the number
Aircraft Maintenance Technology • www.AviationPros.com • www.AMTSociety.org