Accident Sequence
The aircraft was cruising at 6,000 feet mean sea level when the engine ceased operation. The pilots initiated a glide toward Cynthiana/Harrison Airport while attempting to restart the engine. When it became clear that the airport was unreachable, they redirected toward an open area.
During the descent, the aircraft passed between two trees. The collision removed both wings, and the fuselage impacted the ground with significant force. After the impact, the aircraft slid to a stop.
Engine Examination
Post-accident inspection of the engine revealed that the fuel servo was inoperative. The fuel servo assembly carried part number 2539806.
Service Bulletin and Airworthiness Directive
The fuel servo had been the subject of Bendix Service Bulletin # RS-85, issued on June 20, 1983. The recommended action in the service bulletin was to replace the existing diaphragm with a new diaphragm, part number 2541803. Service bulletins are not mandatory. However, this particular service bulletin was made an Airworthiness Directive in August 1983.