On March 2, 1986, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N9153K) was involved in an aviation accident near Hickory, NC. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While cruising, the pilot felt engine vibration and diverted to the nearest airport. During descent, an explosion occurred, the engine cowling popped open, and oil covered the windshield. The aircraft glided but collided with trees and terrain. Post-accident examination showed cylinder #2 had separated from the engine due to loosened hold-down nuts.
Event Description
During cruise flight, the pilot detected engine vibration and decided to divert to the nearest airport. While descending, the pilot heard an explosion and observed the engine cowling pop up. Oil subsequently covered the windscreen, obscuring visibility. The pilot established the aircraft in a glide, but the airplane collided with trees and then the ground.
Engine Examination
A post-accident examination of the engine revealed that cylinder #2 had departed from the engine. Four of the eight hold-down nuts had backed completely off the studs. Three studs were found broken, and one stud had pulled out of the crankcase.