On May 5, 1991, a Cessna T-337-D (registration N2688S) operated by Dale W. Nix was involved in an aviation accident near Fullerton, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF POWER IN THE FRONT ENGINE DUE TO THE IMPROPER AND INCOMPLETE INSTALLATION OF THE ENGINE IN THE AIRCRAFT BY A MECHANIC. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a go-around at about 30 ft AGL, the front engine quit. The pilot landed but overran the departure end of the runway, colliding with a fence. The engine had been overhauled and installed 2 hours prior; examination revealed numerous installation discrepancies.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft was executing a go-around at approximately 30 feet above ground level when the front engine ceased operation. The pilot retarded both throttles and completed a landing. The aircraft overran the departure end of the runway and struck a fence.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination of the front engine disclosed multiple discrepancies related to incomplete installation. Items found included tools left in the engine compartment, loose and unconnected oil and fuel lines, and improperly connected throttle and mixture controls. The turbo controller was misadjusted and not properly controlling the waste gate valve. Additionally, the fuel pressure was set excessively high, which caused the engine to quit when run in a test cell.
Maintenance Records
Aircraft logbooks indicated that the engine installation had been signed off as complete by an Airframe and Powerplant mechanic. The engine had been overhauled and installed approximately two hours prior to the accident.