During negative-g operation conditions only, the engine may be operated below minimum oil pressure (13 psi) for a maximum of how many seconds before engine shutdown is required?

• A. 8 seconds
• B. 10 seconds
• C. 12 seconds
• D. 15 seconds

Answer: (B)

During negative-g operation, oil can slosh away from the engine’s bearings, causing oil pressure to dip below the minimum. The system allows a brief dip in this scenario, up to ten seconds, before an engine shutdown is required. This short window provides a safe margin to recover from transient pressure drops without risking damage to lubrication paths or bearings. If the dip lasts longer than the allowed time, continuing operation could lead to lubrication failure and engine damage, which is why a shutdown is mandated after the limit is reached. The other durations would either be too restrictive, causing unnecessary shutoffs, or too long, increasing the risk of damage under negative-g conditions.