On June 1, 1991, a Cessna 310R (registration N3227A) operated by Pedro A. Romero was involved in an aviation accident near Westerly, RI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Over-torqued propeller hub threads, leading to propeller separation and subsequent loss of the right main landing gear. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During final approach, a Cessna 310 experienced a right engine power loss and buffet. The pilot diverted to a VFR airport and landed with the right propeller and right main landing gear missing, which were never recovered.
Incident Overview
A Cessna 310 was on final approach when the pilot detected a buffet and a loss of power in the right engine. In response, he executed a missed approach and diverted the aircraft to a VFR airport. The subsequent landing resulted in the loss of the right propeller and the right main landing gear, which were never recovered.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the threads of the propeller mounting bolts contained threads from the propeller hub. This condition is indicative of the propeller hub threads having been over-torqued at some point during the hub's service life. Additional investigation determined that the propeller had last been installed 499 hours prior to the propeller separation.
Maintenance History
The aircraft was enrolled in a progressive inspection program that scheduled inspections at 50-hour intervals within a 200-hour cycle. At the time of the incident, the aircraft's log books indicated it had accumulated 65 hours since its last inspection.
Probable cause
Over-torqued propeller hub threads, leading to propeller separation and subsequent loss of the right main landing gear.