Investigation number
198402320
Occurrence date
Location
6 km SSE of Moorabbin
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
Minor

The right engine had been replaced as part of a routine maintenance program. During two subsequent flights the engine lost all power. Extensive ground checks failed to reproduce the symptoms and an air test was then carried out. During the test the right engine failed and while various techniques were being employed by the pilot to restore power, the left engine also failed. The pilot was committed to a gear up landing in a paddock and damage was sustained during the ground slide when a mound of dirt was struck. Faulty seals in the right engine fuel shut off valve allowed air to be drawn into the fuel lines, causing the power losses experienced. The left engine failed from fuel exhaustion and when the pilot selected crossfeed from the right tank, air was drawn through the defective valve, preventing further running of the left engine.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Piper Aircraft Corp
Model
PA-31
Registration
VH-KFD
Operation type
Aerial Work
Departure point
Moorabbin VIC
Departure time
1053
Destination
Moorabbin VIC
Damage
Substantial