On June 5, 1993, a Cessna 310J (registration N3005L) was involved in an aviation accident near Broomfield, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Friction of escaping oxygen igniting lubricant on cable. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A fire originating around the glareshield and windshield was traced to a leaking oxygen system bottle and lubricant on a binding control cable.
Incident Description
While seated in the cockpit discussing the lesson plan, the pilot-in-command and an instructor-trainee observed fire around the glareshield and windshield area.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination traced the fire pattern back to the nosewheel well and the oxygen system bottle. Investigators learned that the oxygen regulator had been leaking and the on-off control cable was binding. The leak was believed to have been repaired. A mechanic stated that he lubricated the cockpit end of the regulator control. The aircraft owner reported that the mechanic used an aerosol can to lubricate something inside the nosewheel well.
Cause Determination
The fire department's arson squad determined that the cause of the fire was 'friction of escaping oxygen igniting lubricant on cable.'
Probable cause
Friction of escaping oxygen igniting lubricant on cable.