On July 31, 1984, a Grumman AA-5 (registration N6542L) operated by Phillip C Labox was involved in an aviation accident near Klamath Falls, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the starter to disengage, which resulted in overheating and an engine compartment fire. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During climbout, the pilot experienced engine power loss and a small fire in the engine compartment. An emergency landing was made in an open field after examination revealed the starter had not disengaged.
What happened
The pilot reported that the run-up and takeoff procedures were conducted normally. However, during the climbout phase, the engine suddenly lost power. A small fire, which was confined to the engine compartment, erupted shortly thereafter. The pilot was unable to restore engine power and subsequently executed an emergency landing in an open field.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft engine revealed that the starter had not disengaged after operation. This failure caused the starter to overheat, leading to the fire observed during the climbout.
Probable cause
The failure of the starter to disengage, which resulted in overheating and an engine compartment fire.
What happened in the 31 Jul 1984 Grumman AA-5 accident near Klamath Falls, OR?
During climbout, the pilot experienced engine power loss and a small fire in the engine compartment. An emergency landing was made in an open field after examination revealed the starter had not disengaged.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Jul 1984 involved a Grumman AA-5, registration N6542L, operated by Phillip C Labox, at Klamath Falls, OR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The failure of the starter to disengage, which resulted in overheating and an engine compartment fire.
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