Team Inc MINI-MAX N1532W accident near Chula Vista, California

Probable cause

A complete loss of engine power as a result of fuel starvation due to an unsecured fuel filter, which moved in flight and kinked the flexible fuel line, severely restricting the fuel flow to the carburetor. Contributing to the accident was the inadequate maintenance conducted on the airplane.

NTSB analysis

The pilot was the fourth owner of the experimental amateur-built airplane and had owned it for about 4 months. During that time, he had conducted unspecified repairs and other maintenance on the airplane and had also flown it. The pilot did not hold a Federal Aviation Administration repairman certificate.

During the personal flight, the engine experienced a sudden and complete loss of power. Because the airplane was over a suburban neighborhood, the pilot conducted a forced landing in a park. The airplane subsequently struck a light pole and an embankment. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel lines were clear flexible plastic and that an in-line fuel filter was installed between the firewall and the carburetor. When first examined, the fuel line between the filter and the carburetor contained a kinked bend of about 90 degrees, which effectively choked the fuel line and prevented fuel from reaching the carburetor. The filter moved easily with very light force, and when moved manually about an inch fore and aft, the fuel line kinked and unkinked. Although the engine was not started due to the damage to the airplane, the engine turned over easily when the pull starter was activated.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12LA441 for the full record.