Which of the following describes a permissible action for a certificated powerplant mechanic regarding propeller repairs?

• A. A certificated powerplant mechanic may perform a major repair on an aluminum propeller and approve for return to service.
• B. A certificated powerplant mechanic may make a minor repair on an aluminum propeller and approve for return to service.
• C. A certificated powerplant mechanic may replace a propeller without approval.
• D. Only an FAA inspector may approve propeller repairs.

Answer: (B)

A certificated powerplant mechanic is allowed to perform minor repairs on an aluminum propeller and approve the propeller for return to service. Minor repairs are those that fall within the mechanic’s training and within the data limits for propeller repair, and they can be signed off after the repair is completed and the part is inspected for airworthiness. Major repairs, by contrast, require an approved propeller repair facility or an FAA inspector to authorize, because they restore or reconstruct the propeller beyond simple limits. Replacing a propeller or performing repairs beyond the minor scope isn’t allowed for a mechanic without the proper authority or facility endorsement. This is why the correct action is to handle a minor repair and approve it for return to service.