Casualties unknown

Engine Vibration Leads to Forced Landing and Nose Gear Collapse (N12124)

Macedonia, OH, US

On April 22, 1985, a Cessna 172M (registration N12124) was involved in an aviation accident near Macedonia, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the number 3 exhaust valve (part number 75068), which resulted in severe engine vibration and partial power loss. 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 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot executed a forced landing after experiencing severe engine vibration and partial power loss at 2500 feet. A sharp turn to avoid a house caused the nose gear to collapse.

What happened

While cruising at an altitude of 2500 feet mean sea level, the aircraft's engine developed a severe vibration accompanied by a partial loss of power. The pilot was forced to execute an emergency landing on an inclined field. To avoid striking a house during the approach, the pilot initiated a sharp left turn. During this maneuver, the nose gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to nosed over.

The investigation

A subsequent examination of the engine revealed that the number 3 exhaust valve, part number 75068, had failed. This mechanical failure was identified as the primary cause of the vibration and power loss experienced during flight.

Probable cause

The failure of the number 3 exhaust valve (part number 75068), which resulted in severe engine vibration and partial power loss.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Apr 1985 Cessna 172M accident near Macedonia, OH?

A pilot executed a forced landing after experiencing severe engine vibration and partial power loss at 2500 feet. A sharp turn to avoid a house caused the nose gear to collapse.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Apr 1985 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N12124, at Macedonia, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the number 3 exhaust valve (part number 75068), which resulted in severe engine vibration and partial power loss.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36134. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.