On October 16, 1984, a Cessna 210 (registration N7470E) was involved in an aviation accident near San Pedro, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine-driven fuel pump was found to be producing less than specified pressure due to a brittle and cracked rubber diaphragm. 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 while on a 3.5-mile final approach to Torrence Airport. The pilot landed at Los Angeles West Basin Harbor. Investigation found a faulty fuel pump diaphragm.
Incident Overview
An aircraft on a 3.5-mile final approach to Torrence Airport suffered an engine failure. The pilot subsequently landed the aircraft at Los Angeles West Basin Harbor.
Examination Findings
Post-incident examination of the engine and associated fuel lines revealed no signs of malfunction or failure. However, the engine-driven fuel pump was tested and found to be delivering pressure below the manufacturer's specified level. Further inspection of the pump disclosed a brittle and cracked rubber diaphragm. The engine had accumulated 2,932 total hours, with 982 hours since major overhaul. The original safety wires on the fuel pump were still in use.
Probable Cause
The investigation identified the cause of the engine failure as the engine-driven fuel pump producing insufficient pressure due to a brittle and cracked rubber diaphragm.
What happened in the 16 Oct 1984 Cessna 210 accident near San Pedro, CA?
An aircraft experienced an engine failure while on a 3.5-mile final approach to Torrence Airport. The pilot landed at Los Angeles West Basin Harbor. Investigation found a faulty fuel pump diaphragm.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Oct 1984 involved a Cessna 210, registration N7470E, at San Pedro, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The engine-driven fuel pump was found to be producing less than specified pressure due to a brittle and cracked rubber diaphragm.
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