On April 27, 1985, a Beech A35 (registration N585B) was involved in an aviation accident near Truckee, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Mechanical failure of the engine, specifically a cracked crankcase near the number four cylinder location, which resulted in oil covering the windshield and severe engine vibration. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot executed a gear-up landing on rocky terrain after the aircraft windshield became obscured by oil and the engine began vibrating severely.
What happened
The pilot performed a gear-up landing on rocky terrain. The event was preceded by the aircraft windshield becoming covered with oil and the engine beginning to vibrate.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the engine revealed significant internal damage. Investigators found a six-inch crack in the crankcase near the location where the number four cylinder should have been situated. Additionally, half of the number four piston was discovered inside the engine case, while the other half could not be located.
Findings
The sequence of events suggests that mechanical failure within the engine led to oil leakage onto the windshield and severe vibration. The structural integrity of the crankcase was compromised, resulting in the displacement of piston components.
Probable cause
Mechanical failure of the engine, specifically a cracked crankcase near the number four cylinder location, which resulted in oil covering the windshield and severe engine vibration.
What happened in the 27 Apr 1985 Beech A35 accident near Truckee, CA?
A pilot executed a gear-up landing on rocky terrain after the aircraft windshield became obscured by oil and the engine began vibrating severely.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Apr 1985 involved a Beech A35, registration N585B, at Truckee, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Mechanical failure of the engine, specifically a cracked crankcase near the number four cylinder location, which resulted in oil covering the windshield and severe engine vibration.
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