On June 24, 1991, a Cessna A188B (registration N8278G) operated by Charles M. Gilpen was involved in an aviation accident near Delta, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A TOTAL POWER LOSS DUE TO A RUPTURED FUEL LINE, AND THE INSTALLATION OF AN INCORRECT FUEL LINE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a spray run, the engine lost power, forcing a landing on a rural road. The aircraft struck a sign during rollout, collapsing the main landing gear. Investigation revealed a failed copper fuel line due to an over-torqued nut.
Accident Overview
The pilot was pulling up from a spray run when the engine lost power, necessitating a forced landing on a rural road. During the landing rollout, the airplane struck a sign, causing the main landing gear to collapse.
Engine Examination
A postaccident examination of the engine disclosed that the fuel pressure line had failed at its attachment point to the fuel distributor. Evidence indicated that the nut connecting the line had been over torqued. The copper fuel line had been installed during an engine overhaul and failed 63 hours later.
Manufacturer Guidance
According to the airplane manufacturer, a flexible steel braided line should have been installed instead of the copper line that failed.
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