On November 4, 1991, a Cessna 180 (registration N2802A) operated by Elson Hamilton was involved in an aviation accident near Sacramento, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the right brake due to an accumulation of aluminum particles in the master cylinder, which caused intermittent operation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft collided with a hangar after the right brake failed during taxiing following an uneventful landing. Investigation found aluminum particles in the master cylinder.
What happened
Following an uneventful landing, the pilot taxied the aircraft to its designated parking area and applied pressure to the brake pedals. The right brake failed to function properly, resulting in the airplane colliding with a hangar.
The investigation
An examination of the brake system revealed an accumulation of aluminum particles within the master cylinder. This contamination caused the system's operation to be intermittent, preventing reliable braking performance.
Findings
The pilot had operated the aircraft for 79.8 hours since it last received an annual inspection. The failure of the right brake was attributed to the condition of the master cylinder components.
Probable cause
The failure of the right brake due to an accumulation of aluminum particles in the master cylinder, which caused intermittent operation.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 4 Nov 1991 Cessna 180 accident near Sacramento, CA?
An aircraft collided with a hangar after the right brake failed during taxiing following an uneventful landing. Investigation found aluminum particles in the master cylinder.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Nov 1991 involved a Cessna 180, registration N2802A, operated by Elson Hamilton, at Sacramento, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The failure of the right brake due to an accumulation of aluminum particles in the master cylinder, which caused intermittent operation.
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