On January 6, 1995, a Beech A60 (registration N3LP) was involved in an aviation accident near Hurley, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Turbocharger shaft separated due to fatigue. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During climb, pilot reported engine power loss, returned for VOR-A approach, but aircraft impacted short of runway. Post-crash fire damaged airplane; left engine propeller feathered. Investigation revealed turbocharger shaft fatigue failure and unauthorized chrome plating.
Accident Sequence
During the climb to cruise altitude, the pilot reported a power loss on one engine and received vectors from air traffic control for a return to the departure airport. The pilot was subsequently cleared for the VOR-A approach and reported intercepting the inbound radial. The impact site was located to the right of the inbound radial and short of the extended runway centerline. Weather conditions at the airport were visual flight rules (VFR).
Post-Impact Examination
A post-impact fire damaged the airplane. Examination of the aircraft revealed that the left engine propeller was in the feather position. Visual and metallurgical examination of the left engine's turbocharger confirmed that the turbocharger shaft had separated due to fatigue. The shaft contained chromium. The aircraft overhaul manual explicitly states that "chrome plating... restoration of the shaft... are not permitted." Further metallographics revealed a microstructure of grey iron, typical of automotive applications, in the center housing of the turbocharger.
Maintenance History
The turbocharger had been overhauled and installed on the left engine in October 1989.
What happened in the 6 Jan 1995 Beech A60 accident near Hurley, NM?
During climb, pilot reported engine power loss, returned for VOR-A approach, but aircraft impacted short of runway. Post-crash fire damaged airplane; left engine propeller feathered. Investigation revealed turbocharger shaft fatigue failure and unauthorized chrome plating.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Jan 1995 involved a Beech A60, registration N3LP, at Hurley, NM.
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