Mechanical Aptitude Test

[farmer2]

Does anyone know of a mechanical aptitude test that could be given to applicants for a job requiring ability to trouble shoot and inspect equipment?

 

[IceStationZebra]

100% in 5-10 minutes.

Greg, if half of the questions had errors how did you get 92% right? Does that mean you picked the wrong answers on purpose?

ISZ

 

[GregLocock]

I answered them in the spirit in which they were intended, but for many of them it would be possible to argue in favour of another answer.

eg the air going into an engine's cylinder.

is it sucked in by the piston, or pushed in by atmospheric pressure?

Perfectly correct answer: something else, since if the VE is >100% then neither of those two mechanisms can explain it.

etc.









Cheers

Greg Locock

SIGlease see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[GregLocock]

Sorry, hit return too quickly.

Mind that is a general problem, often you have to answer the question that the interviewer examiner meant to ask, rather than what they actually asked.

Cheers

Greg Locock

SIGlease see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.

 

[Ussuri]

I'm clearly a dunce, only 80%.

 

[IceStationZebra]

Greg, I'll grant you that one. You could also argue the question about the fans - same or opposite rotation relative to what? And the balloon question assumes that the balloons are equal thickness.

You also have to wonder how mechanical aptitude relates to knowing that oil floats on water!

ISZ

 

[unclesyd]

I can't see where the Ford test would show any mechanical aptitude by the person taking the test. Back in the my day we covered such things starting in the eight grade. Making good on this type test which is I've seen given in various forms on pre-employment tests doesn't say anything about the practical aspect of mechanical aptitude. Though not used as a condition of employment it is normally filed and used later in evaluation in job bids. It is sort of like the test where you punch holes in the test paper which is supposed to show you a career path. This test said I should be concert pianist.
Granted this test would be a first step but I would want a little hands on prior to committing resources for training and find out the applicant is not suited for the job.

I have known and believe you have also known numerous outstanding mechanics that I don't believe could score the 80 required to pass this test.

 

[itsmoked]

15 mins 94%

Tripped by the fan.
Manometer question. I think I was right but eh.
Gear train naming. Mixed two. Didn't like my answer anyway.

BTW That was fun!

Keith Cress
kcress -

http://www.flaminsystems.com

 

[khardy]

92% But:

Matching the drive ratio name to the proper image requires knowledge of specific terminology which I long ago forgot.

The planet gear question could have been worded more clearly.

Piston question…. marginal.

They got me on the fan question.

It was fun though.

 

[ScottyUK]

96%, 10 minutes, wife babbling on in background.

The wording of some questions was vague to say the least.

I will take this to work and see how the lads do at it.


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If we learn from our mistakes I'm getting a great education!

 

[itsmoked]

So MR. Brainiac, which two did you miss? Fess up!

Keith Cress
kcress -

http://www.flaminsystems.com

 

[Warpspeed]

Hmmm,...
Trouble shoot and inspect equipment, and it is an on site supervisory job.

So presumably this guy will not be rebuilding whole engines or hydraulic pumps on the bench with his own two hands? Just trouble shooting in the field. And as it is supervisory position, he should have had some prior experience in this field.

I would try to get some cut away or exploded drawings of the type of equipment you use, and start asking questions. What does this bit do, what would be some of the things you would check for a particular problem.

In another approach, ask about hobbies and outside interests. If he has a home workshop and tinkers around with vehicles or machinery, that would have to be be a plus.

If his fingernails are completely clean, be VERY suspicious.

 

[itsmoked]

It would sure be nice to see the candidate actually work on something. You can learn soooo much just by watching them for maybe 10 minutes. Attitude, focused interest, methodology, concentration, planning, assurance, and confidence would all pour out of 10-15 minutes of wrenching on something. It would need to be the Right Something.

Keith Cress
kcress -

http://www.flaminsystems.com