On July 27, 1985, a Luscombe 8A (registration N1035K) was involved in an aviation accident near Yamhill, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper fueling with a mixture of automotive fuel and 80/87 avgas, combined with a shrunken gasket in the carburetor float valve chamber that caused the float to stick open. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft engine ceased operating at 40 feet AGL during initial takeoff climb. Investigation revealed improper fueling with automotive fuel and avgas mixture, and a shrunken carburetor gasket causing a stuck float.
Event Overview
During the initial climb after takeoff, the aircraft's engine ceased operating at approximately 40 feet above ground level. The aircraft had been on the ground for over four hours prior to the flight, with a surface temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Investigation Findings
The subsequent investigation disclosed that the aircraft had been fueled with a mixture of automotive fuel and 80/87 avgas. Additionally, a gasket in the float valve chamber of the carburetor had shrunk, interfering with the normal operation of the float. The carburetor float was found stuck in the open position. These conditions were identified as contributing to the engine stoppage.
Probable cause
Improper fueling with a mixture of automotive fuel and 80/87 avgas, combined with a shrunken gasket in the carburetor float valve chamber that caused the float to stick open.