Who is authorized to rebuild an aircraft engine and issue a zero-time record?

• A. The manufacturer of the engine or a facility approved by the manufacturer.
• B. An FAA-approved repair station.
• C. The aircraft owner.
• D. A government lab.

Answer: (A)

The ability to rebuild an engine and issue a zero-time record rests with the engine’s manufacturer or a facility approved by the manufacturer. That designation is the official certification that the overhaul was performed to the exact OEM specifications and that the engine’s time in service is reset to zero. The manufacturer’s oversight and documentation ensure the rebuilt engine meets all tolerances, calibrations, and critical parameters required by the engine design, which is why the zero-time status is credible and recognized in maintenance records and future service planning. An FAA-approved repair station can perform repairs, but they don’t have the authority to issue a zero-time record for an overhaul. The aircraft owner and a government laboratory do not have the authority to certify zero-time status.