Casualties unknown

Engine Failure and Forced Landing After Loss of Oil Pressure; Missing Bolt Found (N42855)

New Hudson, MI, US

On March 26, 1984, a Cessna 182L (registration N42855) was involved in an aviation accident near New Hudson, MI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

After leveling at 3,000 ft, the cabin filled with smoke and oil pressure was lost. The engine failed. During a forced landing in a cornfield, the aircraft nosed over. Investigation revealed a missing bolt on the main oil screen. The pilot admitted he might have overlooked reinstalling safety wire during an oil change.

Incident Sequence

After leveling off at 3,000 feet, the aircraft cabin filled with smoke and all oil pressure was lost. Shortly thereafter, the engine ceased operation. The pilot executed a forced landing in a corn field, during which the aircraft nosed over.

Forced Landing

The aircraft came to rest inverted after the nose-over in the corn field. No further details about the landing or the condition of the aircraft or occupants have been specified.

Post-Accident Investigation

During the post-accident investigation, it was discovered that the bolt securing the main oil screen was missing. The pilot stated that he performs his own oil changes and that while cleaning the screen, he could have overlooked reinstalling the safety wire.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Mar 1984 Cessna 182L accident near New Hudson, MI?

After leveling at 3,000 ft, the cabin filled with smoke and oil pressure was lost. The engine failed. During a forced landing in a cornfield, the aircraft nosed over. Investigation revealed a missing bolt on the main oil screen. The pilot admitted he might have overlooked reinstalling safety wire during an oil change.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Mar 1984 involved a Cessna 182L, registration N42855, at New Hudson, MI.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38993. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.