When changing elements, what marking is required?

• A. The serial number should be etched
• B. The month and year should be stenciled on there
• C. Record the change in the logbook
• D. Stamp the day of change

Answer: (B)

Keeping track of when an element is replaced ensures you know its service life and can schedule replacements before it fails. Marking the month and year directly on the element gives an at‑a‑glance indicator of how long it has been in service, so anyone handling it can quickly assess whether it’s still within its planned life or needs replacement. This simple, standardized stamp helps avoid guesswork and keeps maintenance flowing smoothly, especially in field or shop conditions where you may not have immediate access to full records.

Etching a serial number helps identify the component, but it doesn’t tell you how long it has been in use. Recording the change in the logbook is essential for traceability, but the marking on the item itself provides immediate information without needing to consult records. Stamping the day of change would be overly precise and could be damaged or fade, while month and year stay legible, practical, and sufficient for tracking service life.