On May 13, 1994, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N114WW) was involved in an aviation accident near Belleair, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER MAINTENANCE INSPECTION OF THE CRANKCASE BREATHER TUBE RESULTING IN FAILURE TO DETECT BLOCKAGE OF THE TUBE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Pilot observed engine oil on windshield, dropped banner on a golf course, and performed precautionary landing. During rollout, aircraft struck two trees. Postcrash exam found dislodged front crankshaft seal and partially blocked crankcase breather line.
Incident Description
The pilot of an aircraft towing an aerial advertising banner observed engine oil leaking onto the windshield. In response, the pilot released the banner over a golf course and executed a precautionary landing on the same golf course. During the landing rollout, the aircraft collided with two trees.
Postcrash Examination
A postcrash examination of the engine revealed that the front crankshaft seal was partially dislodged, which was causing the oil leakage. Additionally, the engine crankcase breather line was found to be partially blocked with oil sludge and debris. No other evidence of failure or malfunction was noted in the engine.
What happened in the 13 May 1994 Piper J3C-65 accident near Belleair, FL?
Pilot observed engine oil on windshield, dropped banner on a golf course, and performed precautionary landing. During rollout, aircraft struck two trees. Postcrash exam found dislodged front crankshaft seal and partially blocked crankcase breather line.
Were there any fatalities in the 13 May 1994 Piper J3C-65 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 May 1994 involved a Piper J3C-65, registration N114WW, at Belleair, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
IMPROPER MAINTENANCE INSPECTION OF THE CRANKCASE BREATHER TUBE RESULTING IN FAILURE TO DETECT BLOCKAGE OF THE TUBE.
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