Casualties unknown

1987-06-03: Cessna 421B (N137JR) — O.c.king — Miami, FL

Miami, FL, US

On June 3, 1987, a Cessna 421B (registration N137JR) operated by O.c.king was involved in an aviation accident near Miami, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The lower torque link separated from the upper because it was pulled over the outer washer, nut, and cotter key. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During the landing roll, the left main landing gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to slide to a stop. Inspection revealed separation of the torque links, with the lower link pulled over the securing hardware. Non-compliance with a Cessna service letter was identified.

Incident

During the landing roll, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the aircraft subsequently slid to a stop.

Inspection Findings

Inspection of the left landing gear revealed that the upper and lower torque links, which maintain parallel alignment of the tire to the fuselage, had separated. The separation occurred as a result of the lower torque link being pulled over the outer washer, nut, and cotter key, which along with a bolt secure the upper torque link to the lower. Following the separation, the tire turned sideways, perpendicular to the direction of travel, after which the entire gear assembly collapsed rearward.

Maintenance Issue

Examination of the failed washer revealed that Cessna Service Information Letter ME83-37, which recommends replacement of the two outer washers with larger ones on the main landing gear scissor assembly (torque links), had not been complied with.

Probable cause

The lower torque link separated from the upper because it was pulled over the outer washer, nut, and cotter key. This occurred due to non-compliance with Cessna Service Information Letter ME83-37, which recommends replacement of the two outer washers on the main landing gear scissor assembly with larger ones.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31260. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.