Oil system event involving a Boeing 767-204, VH-RMK, Melbourne Aerodrome, Victoria, on 29 January 1996

Approaching top of climb a strong odour became evident in both the cabin and flight deck. When visible light smoke was noticed the crew initiated a return to Melbourne. During descent the right engine oil pressure fell to zero and the engine was shut down.

Maintenance found engine oil dripping from the engine. The engine was removed for tear down inspection which disclosed that the high-pressure turbine oil pressure tube had ruptured at the coupling nut allowing the engine oil to be pumped overboard. The rupture had originated in an area of deficient fusion in a manufacturing weld. The manufacturer initiated a worldwide x-ray sampling of the tube and published a service bulletin detailing corrective actions to be taken.