A "fuel starvation" takeoff crash on a DC3 was investigated by the NTSB and the failed engine was removed and examined. It operated normally on a test stand, and the NTSB attributed the cause to pilot error. The aircraft was overhauled and put back into service, yet soon the same engine began losing power and running rough.
The company then made an examination of the inside of the fuel tanks which revealed sealing compound flakes, some as large as an adult's hand, floating freely in the tanks. Sealant marked "Randolph Sloshing Compound 912" was found in the company stockroom and had been applied previously to the tanks. A search of FAA records revealed 15 other accidents/incidents involving interrupted fuel flow caused by this and similar sealing compounds.
The author found the sealant material not to be FAA approved, but stocked and used in aircraft maintenance shops. FAA notices and enforcement to curb this product's use has been less than prompt.
Incidentally, the NTSB "probable cause" of this DC3 fuel starvation accident, remains officially "pilot error." It is time for a letter of "Reconsideration" to the Safety Board on this and other such accidents!
Roy Daw is a former NTSB Air Safety Investigator and FAA Airworthiness Inspector
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