Probable cause
A ruptured center balance diaphragm that resulted in a loss of engine power during final approach and subsequent forced landing on a desert floor.
NTSB analysis
After installing a new carburetor on the airplane, a flight check was performed. No discrepancies were noted with the run-up or takeoff; however, on final approach, the engine lost power. The pilot had to maneuver the airplane away from the ILS during the forced landing on the desert floor. The tail section separated at the empennage, as well as propeller and leading edge damage to both wings. An inspection of the carburetor revealed that the center balance diaphragm (part number 366999) had ruptured, which allowed fuel into the air passages and forced the engine to lose power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for LAX08LA271 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 20, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Reno, Nevada
- Nearest airport
- Reno Stead Airport (4sd)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Hawker Sea Fury TMK 20
- N-number
- N51SF
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Flight test
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.