On June 30, 1985, a Piper PA-12 (registration N4011M) was involved in an aviation accident near Kenai, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fuel exhaustion due to an incorrectly installed left fuel gauge that indicated more fuel than was actually present. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine power loss due to fuel exhaustion after a left fuel gauge, incorrectly installed by the pilot, indicated more fuel than present, resulting in an emergency landing into trees.
Incident Details
A pilot reported that upon departing Seward, the fuel gauges indicated approximately 15 gallons of fuel on board. About five minutes from the intended destination, the engine lost power because of fuel exhaustion. At the time of the power loss, the left fuel gauge showed 5 gallons remaining. The pilot attempted an emergency landing, during which the aircraft crashed into trees.
Examination Findings
An examination of the left fuel gauge revealed that it had been incorrectly installed and was indicating more fuel than was actually in the left tank. The pilot had installed the gauge during reconditioning work on the aircraft.
Probable cause
Fuel exhaustion due to an incorrectly installed left fuel gauge that indicated more fuel than was actually present.
What happened in the 30 Jun 1985 Piper PA-12 accident near Kenai, AK?
A pilot reported engine power loss due to fuel exhaustion after a left fuel gauge, incorrectly installed by the pilot, indicated more fuel than present, resulting in an emergency landing into trees.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Jun 1985 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N4011M, at Kenai, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Fuel exhaustion due to an incorrectly installed left fuel gauge that indicated more fuel than was actually present.
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