On April 20, 1991, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N503G) operated by Aztec Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Bessemer, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: RUPTURE OF A HIGH-TIME, RUBBER, OIL COOLER HOSE, WHICH RESULTED IN A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, OIL EXHAUSTION, AND SEIZURE OF THE ENGINE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced propeller pitch control issues and dropping oil pressure shortly after takeoff. The engine subsequently quit and seized, forcing an emergency landing on a county road that ended with collision with a railroad signal box. Examination revealed a ruptured rubber oil cooler hose with 3,141 hours in service.
Preflight and Departure
A pilot completed a preflight inspection that indicated all systems were operational prior to departure. The pilot confirmed that 7 1/2 quarts of engine oil were in the crankcase.
In-Flight Malfunction
A few minutes into the flight, the pilot was unable to adjust the propeller pitch and noticed that the engine oil pressure was dropping. The pilot elected to return to the airport.
Emergency Landing
En route to the airport, the engine quit and seized. While attempting an emergency landing on a county road, the airplane collided with a railroad signal box.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane disclosed that a rubber oil cooler hose had ruptured. The maintenance records indicated that the failed hose had been in service for 3,141 hours since installation.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Apr 1991 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Bessemer, AL?
A pilot experienced propeller pitch control issues and dropping oil pressure shortly after takeoff. The engine subsequently quit and seized, forcing an emergency landing on a county road that ended with collision with a railroad signal box. Examination revealed a ruptured rubber oil cooler hose with 3,141 hours in…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Apr 1991 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N503G, operated by Aztec Aviation, Inc., at Bessemer, AL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
RUPTURE OF A HIGH-TIME, RUBBER, OIL COOLER HOSE, WHICH RESULTED IN A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, OIL EXHAUSTION, AND SEIZURE OF THE ENGINE.
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