On March 1, 2006, a Piper PA-32RT-300T (registration N7824T) was involved in an aviation accident near Manhattan, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An exposed left magneto 'P' lead touching the connector shell, which could cause intermittent grounding of the left magneto and result in the fuel control hunting to compensate, producing an engine power surge. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced engine surging after rotation, then loss of power during a left turn. After landing off-centerline, the left wing struck runway markers and lights, damaging both spars. Investigation found an exposed magneto lead.
Flight Events
The pilot reported that the engine began to surge slightly in power as the airplane was rotated for liftoff from runway 03. During the climbout, the pilot notified the tower of a "possible engine problem," and the engine continued surging. As a slow left turn was executed toward runway 13, the engine started losing power.
Landing and Damage
The pilot managed to land on runway 13 near the intersection with runway 03-21. The airplane was not aligned with the runway centerline, and it departed the side of the runway. The left wing struck an elevated runway marker and taxiway lights. Examination revealed that both wing spars were damaged and the left wing was twisted down.
Inspection Findings
An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the airplane and engine. The inspection uncovered an exposed left magneto "P" lead that was touching the connector shell. According to the inspector, this condition could cause an intermittent grounding of the left magneto, which in turn could result in the fuel control hunting to compensate and producing an engine power surge.
Probable cause
An exposed left magneto 'P' lead touching the connector shell, which could cause intermittent grounding of the left magneto and result in the fuel control hunting to compensate, producing an engine power surge.