Beechcraft E18S Broken Elevator Cable After takeoff on a post-inspection flight, the pilot heard a “snap” and the aircraft pitched up. Control was regained by reducing power and using elevator trim. The aircraft returned for a successful high-speed wheel landing. The elevator cable (p/n 414-187097-1) broke at the pulley above the tail wheel, at bulkhead number 14. The pulley was free to rotate but exhibited signs of wear-possibly from over-tensioning of the cable. Further inspection revealed broken cable 288
Cracked, Failed, Fractured
After takeoff on a post-inspection flight, the pilot heard a "snap" and the aircraft pitched up. Control was regained by reducing power and using elevator trim. The aircraft returned for a successful high-speed wheel landing. The elevator cable (p/n 414-187097-1) broke at the pulley above the tail wheel, at bulkhead number 14. The pulley was free to rotate but exhibited signs of wear-possibly from over-tensioning of the cable. Further inspection revealed broken cable strands in the area of its attachment to the elevator control bull wheel.
Key Takeaways:
- A Beechcraft E18S experienced a broken elevator cable shortly after takeoff, attributed to wear and possible over-tensioning, while a Piper PA46-350P's pilot window fractured at 15,000 feet.
- A Piper PA-28R-201 Arrow was found with a cracked rudder horn weld assembly, linked to improper welding techniques.
- Other incidents included a Piper PA-31-350's fuel cell seam failing while parked and a Continental IO-550-B engine with a hidden cracked oil cooler, possibly due to a casting flaw or installation stress.
- These reports highlight a variety of component failures across different aircraft systems, with causes ranging from manufacturing defects and installation issues to wear and sudden, unexplained failure.
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