Accident Sequence
While climbing, the helicopter experienced a heavy smell of fuel. At approximately 150 feet above ground level during a precautionary landing, the engine stopped. The helicopter then impacted the ground hard, causing the skids to collapse and the main rotor blades to shear off the tail boom.
Investigation Findings
During the investigation, the fuel hose B-nut connected to the inlet side of the fuel filter was found loose and less than finger tight. Moving the fuel hose caused a steady stream of fuel to flow outward from the B-nut. Additionally, the B-nut on the inlet side of the fuel filter was found to be finger tight and could be backed off with finger force.
Maintenance History
An annual/300-hour inspection had been performed on January 10, 1984, 39 hours prior to the accident.