Pilot Debrief

LUTERS ARNIS V LEGEND near Glenwood, FL — 2012-06-27

Final reportERA12LA417
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Date
2012-06-27
Location
Glenwood, FL, USA
Aircraft
LUTERS ARNIS V LEGEND
Registration
N3YZ
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power due to the airplane builder’s improper installation of the fuel control unit condition lever cables, which resulted in the airplane’s subsequent forced landing.

NTSB narrative

The amateur-built airplane was in cruise flight at 3,000 feet above ground level when it experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot performed a forced landing to a field, and the airplane sustained substantial damage during the landing. Postaccident examination revealed that the fuel control unit (FCU) condition lever was 20 degrees out of its run position. Further examination of the condition lever revealed that the condition lever’s outer cable had been improperly installed, which allowed the uncommanded aft movement of the condition lever, which could result in a loss of engine power. A broken engine mount, which was likely the result of impact-related forces, was also found. This broken engine mount resulted in a slight turbine misalignment. When the turbine was realigned, the FCU condition lever settings were normal. The engine was subsequently started and operated normally with no irregular noises or hesitation. According to the engine manufacturer’s representative, if the condition lever had been installed properly, there should have been no such movement of the condition lever.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Proper installation of the condition lever cable could have prevented engine flame out.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 11 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents11

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