On March 10, 1987, a Grumman G-164A (registration N8721H) was involved in an aviation accident near Leslie, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control due to a cracked cylinder number 7 head on the Pratt & Whitney R-1340 engine, which resulted in a forced landing and subsequent aircraft damage. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost engine power shortly after takeoff and made a forced landing in a field, causing the aircraft to flip over. Investigation revealed a cracked cylinder head on the Pratt & Whitney R-1340 engine.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power shortly after initiating takeoff. In response to the mechanical failure, the pilot executed a forced landing in a field that had recently been plowed. The impact forces caused the aircraft to flip over during the landing sequence.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft's engine was conducted to determine the cause of the power loss. The inspection revealed that the cylinder head for cylinder number 7 was cracked. This mechanical failure is consistent with the reported sudden loss of power during the flight phase.
Findings
Data from FAA Service Difficulty Reports (SDRs) indicates that this type of failure is not isolated. There have been at least 20 similar cases of cylinder cracking reported on Pratt & Whitney R-1340 engines between January 1980 and April 1987. This pattern suggests a potential systemic issue or recurring defect within that specific engine model during the stated period.
Safety message
Operators and maintenance personnel should be aware of the recurring reports of cylinder cracking in Pratt & Whitney R-1340 engines. Regular inspections for cracks in cylinder heads are critical to preventing in-flight power loss.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain control due to a cracked cylinder number 7 head on the Pratt & Whitney R-1340 engine, which resulted in a forced landing and subsequent aircraft damage.