Piper Aircraft Inc PA-28-161 N642FT accident near Melbourne, Florida

Probable cause

The flight instructor’s overpriming of the engine during multiple unsuccessful engine start attempts on an active runway, which resulted in an engine compartment fire.

NTSB analysis

The flight instructor reported that, while taxiing off the runway after landing and when the airplane was just before the hold short lines, the engine quit. The flight instructor contacted the tower air traffic controller and asked for permission to push the airplane completely off the runway, but the tower controller declined and instructed him to advise whether he could get the engine started. The flight instructor attempted to start the engine using procedures for a hot and cold engine and then noticed smoke coming from the engine cowling. The flight instructor secured the airplane, and, after evacuating it, noticed flames coming from the engine cowling, which he was unable to extinguish using the on-board fire extinguisher. Airport rescue and firefighting personnel responded and extinguished the fire.

Postaccident examination of the carburetor revealed that the loosening torque values of the screws that secure the throttle body to the carburetor bowl were lower than the tightening torque value specified for overhaul. However, repair station personnel reported that it was not uncommon for in-service units to exhibit no loosening torque value. The engine fire was likely caused by the flight instructor's overpriming of the engine during multiple unsuccessful engine start attempts, which likely resulted from his feeling rushed to get the engine started while the airplane was still on an active runway. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA14LA268 for the full record.