Warbird Information Exchange

Back in late July a CAF C-45 went down in a field near Longmont, Colorado.I wrote on WIX what the pilot told me, that the oil drain valve was left open and caused engine failure. Several WIXers questioned that reason. Today's BOULDER DAILY CAMERA states that the NTSB report gives the cause of the engine failure and crash on that reason, just as Stan had said. Not only was the valve found open, but a trail of oil was found on the runway at Platt Valley where they had taken off.

_________________
Bill Greenwood
Spitfire N308WK

Not to mention the fact that the oil drain valves were an illegal installation. Had they not been on the engines, the oil would not have leaked out of them, and the accident would not have happened.

_________________
If God had wanted man to fly behind a flat motor, Pratt Whitney would've built one.

I am not knowledgeble about this engine or specific plane, but I have seen lots of similar valves on many T'6s and other radials. For me, I am glad both pilots survied.

_________________
Bill Greenwood
Spitfire N308WK

Bill

I think the point we where trying to make is that the engines locked up and did not feather. If you pull the oil shut offs or let the oil drain out the bottom of the engine (both of witch are just as bad and operator error) it does not matter, the engine is going to lock up and quit spinning.

Steve

_________________
"Any excuse is good enough if you're willing to use it!"

Oil sump drains are not illegal if they shut off automatically

_________________
GOOD MORNING, WELCOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Press "1" for English.
Press "2" to disconnect until you have learned to speak English.

I think that people may be getting the oil sump/tank (quick) drain and the clean kit rocker box quick drains confused?

Steve

_________________
"Any excuse is good enough if you're willing to use it!"

I have also seen some really interesting "Pre Oil" mods made with household ball valves, they are great until.......

_________________
"Hindsight is usually 20% off!"

Yes Bill, your story was right on.

http://www.ntsb.gov/ntsb/brief2.asp?ev_id=20070730X01039&ntsbno=DEN07LA122&akey=1

Bill,
Have you heard lately how the guys are doing?

From the NTSB report, if that means anything.

Hey Bill,

Remenber my little suggestion at the Oshkosh Mustang Forum about how I always do a 360 after my runup to look at the area where I was to make sure nothing is leaking before I blast off?

I never see anybody else do it!

It does pay off!!

Glenn

now that is a good idea!
I've got a drain like that and have never used it. So far have had one solid lock in about three years. Easy to deal with. (Easier than total engine failure)

They are illegal if there is no FAA approval. The valve manufacturer does not have an STC for its installation in a standard category type certificated aircraft, nor does any other entity.

Where can I find the information that you are referring to in your statement?

Thanks,
DZ

_________________
If God had wanted man to fly behind a flat motor, Pratt Whitney would've built one.

The NTSB report doesn't say anything on the matter - does anyone know if these drains were installed on the aircraft before or after the CAF took possession of the airplane?

I certainly do! I remember thinking, "Smarter than the average bear!"

Glen, I do recall your suggestion. Many of our planes leak a little oil anyway when parked, but it might have saved them in this case.

_________________
Bill Greenwood
Spitfire N308WK