Casualties unknown

1982-05-03: Piper PA-25-235 (N8617L) — Aviation Services Inc. — Greenwood, MS

Greenwood, MS, US

On May 3, 1982, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N8617L) operated by Aviation Services Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Greenwood, MS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported a burning rubber odor followed by oil pressure loss. During forced landing, the right wing struck a fence. Investigation found a separated connecting rod and incomplete overhaul documentation.

Incident Overview

During flight, the pilot detected an odor similar to burning rubber, which was shortly followed by a complete loss of oil pressure. The pilot initiated a forced landing. During the landing attempt, the aircraft's right wing contacted a fence, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the engine logbook revealed that new pistons, valves, oil pump, and camshaft had been installed during or since the last overhaul. However, the logbook did not indicate that new connecting rods were installed. Physical inspection of the engine found that the number four connecting rod had separated at approximately the midpoint of its shank.

Documentation Findings

The absence of any entry regarding replacement of connecting rods in the engine logbook suggests that the existing rods may not have been updated during the recent overhaul. The separation of the number four connecting rod is consistent with a failure at the shank midpoint.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02720. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.