On May 5, 1991, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415C (registration N99893) operated by Donald W. Woollard was involved in an aviation accident near King City, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER WHICH RESULTED FROM THE DRAIN VALVE FITTING ON A NEWLY INSTALLED GASCOLATOR DISLODGING DURING CRUISE FLIGHT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a personal flight, the engine lost power, leading to a forced landing in a dirt field and a nose-over. Investigation revealed the gascolator drain valve fitting was missing.
Incident
While cruising during a personal flight, the engine suddenly lost all power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a dirt field. During the rollout, the aircraft nosed over.
Investigation
Examination of the engine revealed that the drain valve fitting in the gascolator was missing. It had probably become dislodged during the accident flight. The pilot reported that the gascolator was new and provided records indicating that it had been installed 7 operational hours prior to the accident.
Findings
The missing drain valve fitting was consistent with a loss of engine power. The fitting likely came loose during the flight, allowing fuel to escape and causing the engine to stop. The newly installed gascolator had only 7 hours of operation since installation.
What happened in the 5 May 1991 Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415C accident near King City, CA?
During a personal flight, the engine lost power, leading to a forced landing in a dirt field and a nose-over. Investigation revealed the gascolator drain valve fitting was missing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 May 1991 involved an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415C, registration N99893, operated by Donald W. Woollard, at King City, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER WHICH RESULTED FROM THE DRAIN VALVE FITTING ON A NEWLY INSTALLED GASCOLATOR DISLODGING DURING CRUISE FLIGHT.
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