Casualties unknown

Forced Landing After Propeller Overspeed and Structural Failure (N4137C)

Battle Mountain, NV, US

On July 25, 1986, a Cessna T-210 (registration N4137C) was involved in an aviation accident near Battle Mountain, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the number 5 rod bolt, which resulted in a propeller overspeed and subsequent loss of engine power. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot executed a forced landing following an engine power loss and propeller overspeed event, navigating around power lines before impacting a fence during rollout.

What happened

The aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power accompanied by a propeller overspeed condition. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot initiated a forced landing procedure. During the approach, the pilot identified two potential landing sites but was unable to utilize them due to the presence of power lines crossing both areas. Consequently, the pilot selected a road as an alternative landing site.

During the landing rollout on the chosen road, the aircraft's wing tip struck the top of a fence. The impact resulted in damage to the aircraft structure. Post-accident examination revealed that the failure originated from the number 5 rod bolt, which had failed during operation.

The investigation

Examination of the aircraft components identified the specific mechanical cause of the incident. The number 5 rod bolt was found to have failed, leading to the subsequent propeller overspeed and loss of power.

Probable cause

The failure of the number 5 rod bolt, which resulted in a propeller overspeed and subsequent loss of engine power.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Jul 1986 Cessna T-210 accident near Battle Mountain, NV?

A pilot executed a forced landing following an engine power loss and propeller overspeed event, navigating around power lines before impacting a fence during rollout.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Jul 1986 involved a Cessna T-210, registration N4137C, at Battle Mountain, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the number 5 rod bolt, which resulted in a propeller overspeed and subsequent loss of engine power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34345. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.