On August 31, 1988, a Beech 23 (registration N2341J) was involved in an aviation accident near Frankfort, KY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A pin in the valve stem designed to prevent improper positioning of the valve handle had been sheared off, probably when the co-owner attempted to replace the handle. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a go-around from a simulated engine failure, the engine quit. Investigation revealed a fuel selector valve handle indicating the right tank was actually 'off' due to a sheared alignment pin.
Event Description
During a go-around from a simulated engine failure, the engine quit. While completing the emergency procedure, the fuel selector position was changed to the opposite wing fuel tank.
Investigation Findings
A later examination of the aircraft revealed that when the fuel selector valve handle indicated the right tank, it was actually in the 'off' position. The co-owner had removed and reinstalled the selector valve handle while working under the instrument panel. A pin in the valve stem designed to prevent improper positioning of the valve handle had been sheared off, probably when the co-owner attempted to replace the handle.
Maintenance History
The valve handle had not been removed during the recent annual inspection, but correct fuel flow had been verified at that time.
Probable cause
A pin in the valve stem designed to prevent improper positioning of the valve handle had been sheared off, probably when the co-owner attempted to replace the handle.
What happened in the 31 Aug 1988 Beech 23 accident near Frankfort, KY?
During a go-around from a simulated engine failure, the engine quit. Investigation revealed a fuel selector valve handle indicating the right tank was actually 'off' due to a sheared alignment pin.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Aug 1988 involved a Beech 23, registration N2341J, at Frankfort, KY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A pin in the valve stem designed to prevent improper positioning of the valve handle had been sheared off, probably when the co-owner attempted to replace the handle.
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