Partial power loss involving a Piper PA-31-350, VH-NDU, Sydney, New South Wales, on 28 October 1992

Approaching the top of climb the left engine began to surge moderately. Engine temperature and pressure appeared normal. Although the pilot carried out trouble checks the surging continued and moderate vibration was noticed. The pilot decided to return to Sydney, but two minutes later an audible 'crack' was heard from the engine. The propeller was feathered, the engine secured, and the aircraft continued to Sydney for an uneventful single engine landing.

It was later determined that the left engine crankshaft had suffered a fatigue failure at the forward crankweb. The shaft was on its second life and had completed 265 hours since the engine was last reconditioned. No rework had been performed on the shaft during reconditioning.