On November 3, 1985, a Cessna 172I (registration N35469) operated by Teddy Friend was involved in an aviation accident near Millington, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failure during takeoff, which resulted in a forced landing and subsequent nose gear collapse, due to the disconnection of wires from the magneto switch. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft experienced an engine failure during takeoff, resulting in a forced landing where the nose gear collapsed. Investigation revealed that wires had disconnected from the magneto switch and were resting on the P-leads.
What happened
The aircraft suffered an engine failure while in the initial climb phase after takeoff. The pilot was forced to execute an emergency landing. During this landing, the nose gear collapsed upon impact with the ground.
The investigation
Post-acc examination of the engine revealed that the electrical wires had become disconnected from the magneto switch. Further inspection showed that these loose wires were resting directly on the P-leads. A fastening screw was located at the bottom of the canvas bag designed to protect the magneto switch, suggesting it may have come loose during flight.
Findings
The engine failure was caused by the loss of ignition due to the disconnected wires. The nose gear collapse was a result of the hard landing associated with the forced landing procedure.
Probable cause
The engine failure during takeoff, which resulted in a forced landing and subsequent nose gear collapse, due to the disconnection of wires from the magneto switch.
What happened in the 3 Nov 1985 Cessna 172I accident near Millington, TN?
A light aircraft experienced an engine failure during takeoff, resulting in a forced landing where the nose gear collapsed. Investigation revealed that wires had disconnected from the magneto switch and were resting on the P-leads.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Nov 1985 involved a Cessna 172I, registration N35469, operated by Teddy Friend, at Millington, TN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The engine failure during takeoff, which resulted in a forced landing and subsequent nose gear collapse, due to the disconnection of wires from the magneto switch.
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