On June 30, 1984, a Beech 35 (registration N3267V) operated by Thomas J Matatall was involved in an aviation accident near Albuquerque, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The drive shaft pin in the fuel pump was worn to the point that marginal engagement could have been expected, resulting in a loss of fuel pump drive. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, stalled, and crashed. Post-crash examination revealed a worn drive shaft pin in the fuel pump that could have caused a loss of fuel pump drive.
Accident Sequence
According to airport personnel, the pilot was known to perform maintenance on the aircraft. The pilot was not a licensed airframe and powerplant mechanic. Witnesses reported that the aircraft took off and climbed to an estimated altitude of 200 to 250 feet when the engine quit. The aircraft continued to climb 'a little more' before making a left bank turn of approximately 60 to 70 degrees. One witness stated, 'I saw the airplane stall and dive nose down. The left wing was low and the track appeared like a steep forward side slip.'
Post-Crash Examination
Post-crash examination of the engine revealed that the drive shaft pin in the fuel pump was worn to the point that marginal engagement could have been expected. This condition could have resulted in a loss of fuel pump drive.
Probable cause
The drive shaft pin in the fuel pump was worn to the point that marginal engagement could have been expected, resulting in a loss of fuel pump drive.
What happened in the 30 Jun 1984 Beech 35 accident near Albuquerque, NM?
An aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, stalled, and crashed. Post-crash examination revealed a worn drive shaft pin in the fuel pump that could have caused a loss of fuel pump drive.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Jun 1984 involved a Beech 35, registration N3267V, operated by Thomas J Matatall, at Albuquerque, NM.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The drive shaft pin in the fuel pump was worn to the point that marginal engagement could have been expected, resulting in a loss of fuel pump drive.
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