On November 16, 1982, a Beech 60 (registration N2677L) operated by W.t. Stevens was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A brake fluid leak in the left brake assembly located at a worn O-ring seal in the lower piston, and the aircraft's brake reservoir was empty. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing roll, the pilot experienced left brake malfunction, causing the aircraft to veer right, run off the runway, and sustain substantial damage after crossing a drainage ditch. Examination revealed a brake fluid leak from a worn O-ring seal in the left brake assembly and an empty brake reservoir.
Incident Overview
During the landing roll, the pilot applied the brakes but encountered a malfunction: the right brake functioned normally, while the left brake did not. Despite repeated pumping of the brakes, the aircraft veered to the right, departing the runway. It subsequently crossed a drainage ditch, resulting in substantial damage.
Post-Incident Examination
A detailed inspection of the landing gear and brake system was conducted. Investigators identified a brake fluid leak in the left brake assembly, specifically at a worn O-ring seal located in the lower piston. Additionally, the aircraft's brake reservoir was found to be empty.
Probable cause
A brake fluid leak in the left brake assembly located at a worn O-ring seal in the lower piston, and the aircraft's brake reservoir was empty.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Nov 1982 Beech 60 accident near Houston, TX?
During landing roll, the pilot experienced left brake malfunction, causing the aircraft to veer right, run off the runway, and sustain substantial damage after crossing a drainage ditch. Examination revealed a brake fluid leak from a worn O-ring seal in the left brake assembly and an empty brake reservoir.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Nov 1982 involved a Beech 60, registration N2677L, operated by W.t. Stevens, at Houston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A brake fluid leak in the left brake assembly located at a worn O-ring seal in the lower piston, and the aircraft's brake reservoir was empty.
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