On February 25, 1989, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N43330) operated by Eagle Flight Center, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Inverness, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Bending damage to the propeller governor oil line caused a fatigue crack, and the lack of support clamps aided in the cracking process, leading to oil loss and engine seizure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During cruise, an aircraft experienced total engine power loss. While attempting a forced landing, it contacted electrical wires and a tree before hitting the ground. Investigation revealed a cracked propeller governor oil line that led to oil loss and engine seizure.
Accident Overview
An aircraft in cruise flight experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot attempted a forced landing, during which the aircraft struck electrical wires and a tree before colliding with terrain.
Post-Accident Inspection
Examination after the accident revealed that the propeller governor oil line had cracked, allowing engine oil to pump out, which subsequently caused the engine to seize. The oil line had been installed following an engine overhaul without two required support clamps. Additionally, the line was bent in the area where the alternator belt is adjusted.
Cause of Crack
The bending damage to the oil line produced a fatigue crack. The absence of the support clamps facilitated the cracking process.
Probable cause
Bending damage to the propeller governor oil line caused a fatigue crack, and the lack of support clamps aided in the cracking process, leading to oil loss and engine seizure.
What happened in the 25 Feb 1989 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Inverness, FL?
During cruise, an aircraft experienced total engine power loss. While attempting a forced landing, it contacted electrical wires and a tree before hitting the ground. Investigation revealed a cracked propeller governor oil line that led to oil loss and engine seizure.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Feb 1989 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N43330, operated by Eagle Flight Center, Inc., at Inverness, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Bending damage to the propeller governor oil line caused a fatigue crack, and the lack of support clamps aided in the cracking process, leading to oil loss and engine seizure.
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