On July 26, 1984, a Boeing A75N1 (registration N49680) was involved in an aviation accident near Wichita Falls, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft lost thrust during climbout and executed a forced landing in a residential area. Examination revealed propeller blades twisted to low pitch, with one blade twisted 180 degrees. The tachometer was marked beyond the propeller and engine max range.
Accident Narrative
During climbout, the aircraft experienced a loss of thrust and began a descent at full power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a residential area.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination of the aircraft showed that the propeller blades had twisted to a low pitch. At the scene, one blade was found twisted 180 degrees. The FAA obtained torque measurements of less than 50 foot-pounds and 25 foot-pounds.
Operational Context
The aircraft had been used for banner towing. The tachometer face was marked at 2550 RPM, which was beyond the maximum range for the propeller and engine combination installed.