What minor maintenance can a certificated powerplant mechanic perform on a propeller?

A certificated powerplant mechanic is authorized to perform specific tasks on aircraft systems, including propellers. The correct choice indicates that a powerplant mechanic can carry out minor repairs and alterations on a propeller. This encompasses tasks such as replacing blades, nacelle patches, or making minor adjustments that do not significantly alter the propeller's design or function.

Understanding the scope of a powerplant mechanic's authority is crucial; it outlines the maintenance functions they can safely and legally perform. Minor repairs and alterations typically do not require extensive regulatory oversight that major alterations would necessitate. This allows mechanics to maintain efficiency while ensuring safety and compliance.

In contrast to the other options, major alterations and repairs involve significant changes that could affect the propeller's performance and structural integrity, necessitating a higher level of certification or oversight, typically beyond that of a powerplant mechanic. Routine inspections, while essential, do not encompass the hands-on modifications or repairs that are permitted. Lastly, propeller balancing is generally a specialized task that falls under specific operational protocols and might require advanced certification or training. Thus, the ability to conduct minor repairs and alterations is the most appropriate and accurate description of what a certificated powerplant mechanic can perform on a propeller.