NTSB RV-10 Preliminary Findings

[janeggenfellner]

It has become nesses to post the following service bulletin as a result of the RV-10 crash last year. The dual batteries, installed in the aft cabin, were relocated a few hours prior to the early morning test flight, in order to move the CG forward and allow for a planned flight with passengers later in the day. The batteries were relocated to the front tunnel, on top of the dual fuel pump installation. The findings, after the crash, was that none of the main battery cables had been crimped more than what looked as a temporary crimp, without the right tools.

Jan Eggenfellner
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EGGENFELLNER SA-012008
SERVICE ALERT

Eggenfellner Aircraft Inc.
735 South Airpark Road, Hangar A5
Edgewater, Florida, 32132
(386) 566-2616 Date: April 13, 2008
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SUBJECT: Cable Connections and Wiring


MODELS AFFECTED: All


SERIAL NUMBERS AFFECTED: All serial numbers


COMPLIANCE TIME: EGGENFELLNER CONSIDERS COMPLIANCE MANDATORY


PURPOSE: During participation in an NTSB accident investigation it was discovered that a cable connection was improperly crimped, and that some builders may not be complying with instructions regarding wiring and/or crimping of cable connections.

The existence of improperly crimped cable connections or improperly routed or secured wiring can result in FIRE or ENGINE STOPAGE.

All battery cables should be constructed from 6AWG Teflon coated cable. Most other high-current cables should be constructed from 8AWG cable. Good cable terminal ends can be constructed by crimping, then soldering and cleaning the terminal lugs, then covering them with shrink tubing, and finally by installing silicone rubber boots at the battery ends.
All cables should be secured with Adel clamps and/or tie-wraps to relieve any strain from the terminal bolts or screws. This is particularly important where cables are attached to circuit breakers. When properly clamped, with all strain relieved, a terminal lug should remain in it's right location even when you remove the screw or bolt that secures it.
Tie-wraps are good for holding bundles of wires together, but avoid using them to attach wires to metal components that might cause abrasion against the wires. Also beware of using them in high-temperature locations. Use padded Adel clamps for these cases. Waxed lacing string is also commonly used for bundling wires, but avoid using this method in high-temperature locations.
For further guidance see the Electrical Systems Installation section of your manual.
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[Mike S]

Jan, so the obvious question that comes with the above, --------

Is this what the feds determined caused Dans accident??

[gmcjetpilot]

It could be the cause but from reports I recall the engine was running? We shall see. From my NTSB research electrical is a top reason for engine stoppage with all alternative engines. If that is the cause it will not be the first or uncommon. The electical components is as important to an electrically dependant engine as the crankshaft is. Any way RIP Dan.