Southern Utah University

Course Syllabus

Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University
Summer Semester 2026

Aviation Maintenance Technician Powerplant (AMTP) 2

AMTP 1250-02

Course: AMTP 1250-02
Credits: 6
Term: Summer Semester 2026
Department: AVTN
CRN: 20103

Course Description


This Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) program is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under 14 CFR Part 147 and reflects the competency-based framework established by the Aircraft Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act.  The curriculum is aligned with the Aviation Mechanic Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and is not based on prescribed seat-time or minimum hour requirements.  Students progress by demonstrating proficiency in required knowledge and practical skills across the General, Airframe, and Powerplant subject areas.  Program completion qualifies students to pursue FAA mechanic certification through required knowledge, oral, and practical examinations. A minimum score of 70% is required on all FAA knowledge tests.

This course is One of a group of Three Powerplant courses that are designed to meet the regulatory and content requirements of Federal Aviation Regulation 14 CFR 147 for the Powerplant portion of the A&P license.

Content: Reciprocating engines, reciprocating engine induction systems, reciprocating engine cooling systems, reciprocating engine fuel and fuel metering systems, reciprocating engine lubrication systems, reciprocating engine electrical systems, reciprocating engine ignition systems, reciprocating engine instrument systems, reciprocating engine exhaust systems, reciprocating engine inspection systems.


Required Texts


Reference #1 (Handbook Purchase): FAA-H-8083-32B FAA Powerplant Handbook; ISBN-13: 978-1-64425-350-2
Reference #1 (Free Online): Navigate to the FAA's Aviation Handbooks and Manuals page.  Select appropriate manual for class "FAA-H-8083-32B

Reference #2 (Handbook Purchase):  Advisory Circular (AC) 43.13-1B, Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices - ISBN 9798325579974
Reference #2 (Free Online): Navigate to FAA's Advisory Circular (ACs) webpage.  In search prompt input "AC 43.13-1B" then select product

Reference #3 (Handbook Purchase): Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Book; ISBN 978-1-64425-504-9
Reference #3: (Free Online):  Navigate to ecfr.gov to find entire list of Code of Federal Regulations online in searchable format 



Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge, risk management, and practical skills related to reciprocating aircraft powerplant systems and maintenance practices in accordance with applicable FAA Airman Certification Standards.

Students will be able to:

  •  Describe the principles of operation, construction, and performance of reciprocating aircraft engines and associated systems. 
  •  Identify and explain the function of engine components, lubrication systems, ignition systems, induction systems, fuel metering systems, cooling systems, exhaust systems, and propeller interfaces. 
  •  Interpret manufacturer maintenance manuals, service information, and approved technical data related to reciprocating engine maintenance. 
  •  Apply safe maintenance practices and identify hazards associated with engine operation, inspection, servicing, and troubleshooting. 
  •  Perform inspections, servicing, troubleshooting, and basic maintenance procedures on reciprocating engine systems and components using approved methods and practices. 
  •  Demonstrate proper use of tools, precision measuring equipment, and engine support equipment used in reciprocating engine maintenance. 
  •  Diagnose common reciprocating engine malfunctions and apply systematic troubleshooting procedures to determine corrective actions. 
  •  Properly document maintenance actions in accordance with FAA regulations and industry standards. 
  •  Demonstrate professionalism, situational awareness, and adherence to safety procedures while performing aircraft powerplant maintenance tasks.

Course Requirements

Prerequisite(s):

  • Courses: Aviation Maintenance Technician Generals (AMTG) 1200 and (AMTG) 1300 and (AMTG) 1400
  • Grade/GPA Requirement:  Prerequisite Min. Grade: C (70%)

Final grades assigned for this course will be based on the percentage of total points earned and are assigned as follows:Assignment Group | Percentage of Final GradeQuizzes | 30% Labs | 30% Midterm & Final | 30% Attendance | 10% Quizzes/Assignments |


Performance Indicators:
A | 90-100% | Excellent Work
B | 80-89% | Good Work
C | 70-79% | Average Work
D | 60-69% | Poor Work
F | 0-59% | Failing Work

Course Outline

Week 1 | Introduction to Reciprocating Engines and Precision Measurement

Demonstrates understanding of:
Types of reciprocating aircraft engines, including radial, diesel, two-stroke, and four-stroke engines, along with basic engine operating principles.

Demonstrates ability to:
Use precision measuring tools and identify common powerplant maintenance tooling.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 1, Powerplant Quiz 1


Week 2 | Lubrication Systems and Engine Teardown Procedures

Demonstrates understanding of:
Engine lubrication and cooling systems, including oil flow, lubrication methods, and system components.

Demonstrates ability to:
Perform approved engine teardown procedures on a reciprocating aircraft engine.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 2, Powerplant Quiz 2


Week 3 | Engine Inspection and Component Evaluation

Demonstrates understanding of:
Inspection procedures, inspection criteria, and proper tool usage during reciprocating engine maintenance.

Demonstrates ability to:
Inspect engine components and perform precision measurements in accordance with manufacturer specifications.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 3, Powerplant Quiz 3


Week 4 | Engine Measurement Standards and Dimensional Inspection

Demonstrates understanding of:
Dimensional inspection standards, wear limits, tolerances, and serviceability criteria for reciprocating engines.

Demonstrates ability to:
Perform dimensional inspections on reciprocating engine components.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 4, Powerplant Quiz 4


Week 5 | Engine Reassembly Procedures

Demonstrates understanding of:
Engine reassembly procedures, hardware installation practices, and component fitment requirements.

Demonstrates ability to:
Reassemble reciprocating engine components using approved maintenance procedures.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 5, Powerplant Quiz 5


Week 6 | Exhaust, Induction, and Cooling Systems

Demonstrates understanding of:
Exhaust system hazards, exhaust inspection procedures, induction systems, and engine cooling methods.

Demonstrates ability to:
Inspect induction, exhaust, and cooling system components for serviceability and safety.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 6, Powerplant Quiz 6


Week 7 | Midterm Exam Week

Review of reciprocating engine systems, inspection procedures, and safety protocols.

Measurement:
Midterm Summative Assessment


Week 8 | Engine Operational Checks and Compression Testing

Demonstrates understanding of:
Engine operational checks, compression testing procedures, and engine cleaning practices.

Demonstrates ability to:
Perform engine run procedures and differential compression tests.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 7, Powerplant Quiz 7


Week 9 | Ignition Systems and Magnetos

Demonstrates understanding of:
Aircraft ignition systems, magneto operation, timing procedures, and solid-state ignition devices.

Demonstrates ability to:
Inspect, time, and troubleshoot magneto systems.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 8, Powerplant Quiz 8


Week 10 | Engine Removal Procedures

Demonstrates understanding of:
Engine removal procedures, safety precautions, and maintenance planning.

Demonstrates ability to:
Remove a reciprocating aircraft engine using approved procedures.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 9, Powerplant Quiz 9


Week 11 | Engine Instrumentation and Installation

Demonstrates understanding of:
Reciprocating engine instrumentation systems and troubleshooting processes.

Demonstrates ability to:
Install reciprocating aircraft engines and verify system connections and operation.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 10, Powerplant Quiz 10


Week 12 | Engine Installation and Troubleshooting

Demonstrates understanding of:
Common engine malfunctions and troubleshooting methodologies.

Demonstrates ability to:
Troubleshoot reciprocating engine installation and operational discrepancies.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 11, Powerplant Quiz 11


Week 13 | Fuel Systems and Carburetion

Demonstrates understanding of:
Aircraft fuel systems, carburetion principles, and fuel system components.

Demonstrates ability to:
Inspect and service fuel systems and carburetor assemblies.

Measurement:
Powerplant Lab 12, Powerplant Quiz 12


Week 14 | Flex Week / Institutional Break

Reserved for institutional breaks, schedule adjustments, additional instruction, or course review activities as needed. This week provides flexibility for academic terms that may be shorter in duration.

Measurement:
Powerplant Quiz 13


Week 15 | Course Content Wrap-Up and Review

Comprehensive review of reciprocating engine systems, inspections, troubleshooting procedures, maintenance practices, and operational checks in preparation for the final assessment. This week may be omitted during shorter academic terms.

Measurement:
Final Exam Review Activities


Week 16 | Final Exam Week

Comprehensive assessment of reciprocating engine systems, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, inspections, and operational practices.

Measurement:
Final Summative Assessment

Instructor's policies on late assignments and/or makeup work

ALL COURSE WORK MUST BE COMPLETED.

Late submissions are strongly discouraged and must still be completed if missed. Assignments submitted after the due date will receive a 5% deduction per day late. After three weeks (21 days), the maximum possible score that may be earned on the assignment is 70% of the total available points. Any assignment not submitted by the due date may automatically receive a grade of zero in the Canvas gradebook until the work is submitted and graded.

Grades for all assessed activities will be recorded in the Canvas gradebook. To view your current score, select Grades from the Course Navigation menu on the left side of the screen. Final course grades are determined by the total percentage of points earned across all graded assignments and are assigned according to the established grading scale.

Letter Grade | Percentage | Performance:

A | 90-100% | Excellent Work
B | 80-89% | Good Work
C | 70-79% | Average Work
D | 60-69% | Poor Work
F | 0-59% | Failing Work

Important note: For more information about grading at Southern Utah University, visit the academic and grading policies of the university catalog.

Attendance Policy

Students are expected to attend all lectures and labs, with up to three absences permitted. Any missed instruction or lab time must be made up before the end of the semester to receive course credit; exceeding the absence limit or failing to complete make-up work will require retaking the course.  All assignments must be submitted to earn credit, and submissions are due by the stated deadlines in Canvas unless prior approval is granted.  Late work may impact your grade, and discussion assignments must be completed on time.

At the same time, unforeseen circumstances do arise—timely communication with the instructor is essential to work through those situations and determine appropriate options.

*Being more than 15 minutes late will count as an absence.

Course Fees

Please see Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Program Pricing website located here: https://www.suu.edu/aviation/amt-pricing.html

ADA Statement

Students with medical, psychological, learning, or other disabilities desiring academic adjustments, accommodations, or auxiliary aids will need to contact the Disability Resource Center, located in Room 206F of the Sharwan Smith Center or by phone at (435) 865-8042. The Disability Resource Center determines eligibility for and authorizes the provision of services.

If your instructor requires attendance, you may need to seek an ADA accommodation to request an exception to this attendance policy. Please contact the Disability Resource Center to determine what, if any, ADA accommodations are reasonable and appropriate.

Academic Credit

According to the federal definition of a Carnegie credit hour: A credit hour of work is the equivalent of approximately 60 minutes of class time or independent study work. A minimum of 45 hours of work by each student is required for each unit of credit. Credit is earned only when course requirements are met. One (1) credit hour is equivalent to 15 contact hours of lecture, discussion, testing, evaluation, or seminar, as well as 30 hours of student homework. An equivalent amount of work is expected for laboratory work, internships, practica, studio, and other academic work leading to the awarding of credit hours. Credit granted for individual courses, labs, or studio classes ranges from 0.5 to 15 credit hours per semester.

Academic Freedom

SUU is operated for the common good of the greater community it serves. The common good depends upon the free search for truth and its free exposition. Academic Freedom is the right of faculty to study, discuss, investigate, teach, and publish. Academic Freedom is essential to these purposes and applies to both teaching and research.

Academic Freedom in the realm of teaching is fundamental for the protection of the rights of the faculty member and of you, the student, with respect to the free pursuit of learning and discovery. Faculty members possess the right to full freedom in the classroom in discussing their subjects. They may present any controversial material relevant to their courses and their intended learning outcomes, but they shall take care not to introduce into their teaching controversial materials which have no relation to the subject being taught or the intended learning outcomes for the course.

As such, students enrolled in any course at SUU may encounter topics, perspectives, and ideas that are unfamiliar or controversial, with the educational intent of providing a meaningful learning environment that fosters your growth and development. These parameters related to Academic Freedom are included in SUU Policy 6.6.

Academic Misconduct

Scholastic honesty is expected of all students. Dishonesty will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent (see SUU Policy 6.33). You are expected to have read and understood the current SUU student conduct code (SUU Policy 11.2) regarding student responsibilities and rights, the intellectual property policy (SUU Policy 5.52), information about procedures, and what constitutes acceptable behavior.

Please Note: The use of websites or services that sell essays is a violation of these policies; likewise, the use of websites or services that provide answers to assignments, quizzes, or tests is also a violation of these policies. Regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), you should check with your individual course instructor.

Emergency Management Statement

In case of an emergency, the University's Emergency Notification System (ENS) will be activated. Students are encouraged to maintain updated contact information using the link on the homepage of the mySUU portal. In addition, students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Emergency Response Protocols posted in each classroom. Detailed information about the University's emergency management plan can be found at https://www.suu.edu/emergency.

HEOA Compliance Statement

For a full set of Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) compliance statements, please visit https://www.suu.edu/heoa. The sharing of copyrighted material through peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing, except as provided under U.S. copyright law, is prohibited by law; additional information can be found at https://my.suu.edu/help/article/1096/heoa-compliance-plan.

You are also expected to comply with policies regarding intellectual property (SUU Policy 5.52) and copyright (SUU Policy 5.54).

Mandatory Reporting

University policy (SUU Policy 5.60) requires instructors to report disclosures received from students that indicate they have been subjected to sexual misconduct/harassment. The University defines sexual harassment consistent with Federal Regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106, Subpart D) to include quid pro quo, hostile environment harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. When students communicate this information to an instructor in-person, by email, or within writing assignments, the instructor will report that to the Title IX Coordinator to ensure students receive support from the Title IX Office. A reporting form is available at https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?SouthernUtahUniv

Non-Discrimination Statement

SUU is committed to fostering an inclusive community of lifelong learners and believes our university's encompassing of different views, beliefs, and identities makes us stronger, more innovative, and better prepared for the global society.

SUU does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex (including sex discrimination and sexual harassment), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ancestry, disability status, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, military status, veteran status, or other bases protected by applicable law in employment, treatment, admission, access to educational programs and activities, or other University benefits or services.

SUU strives to cultivate a campus environment that encourages freedom of expression from diverse viewpoints. We encourage all to dialogue within a spirit of respect, civility, and decency.

For additional information on non-discrimination, please see SUU Policy 5.27 and/or visit https://www.suu.edu/nondiscrimination.

Pregnancy

Students who are or become pregnant during this course may receive reasonable modifications to facilitate continued access and participation in the course. Pregnancy and related conditions are broadly defined to include pregnancy, childbirth, termination of pregnancy, lactation, related medical conditions, and recovery. To obtain reasonable modifications, please make a request to title9@suu.edu. To learn more visit: https://www.suu.edu/titleix/pregnancy.html.

Disclaimer Statement

Information contained in this syllabus, other than the grading, late assignments, makeup work, and attendance policies, may be subject to change with advance notice, as deemed appropriate by the instructor.