On August 3, 1987, a Piper PA-32RT (registration N36646) was involved in an aviation accident near Oelwein, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loose exhaust manifold connection that resulted in a fire in the engine compartment. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a personal night cross-country flight, the pilot detected an engine compartment glow and loss of manifold pressure. The aircraft made an emergency landing in a cornfield and was substantially damaged due to a loose exhaust connection.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a personal night cross-country flight when they noticed a glowing condition in the engine compartment accompanied by a loss of manifold pressure. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the pilot shut the fuel off, pulled the mixture to cutoff, and declared an emergency. The aircraft subsequently made an emergency landing in a cornfield where it was substantially damaged.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection revealed a loose exhaust manifold connection. There was evidence of a fire in the area of this connection.
Findings
The loose exhaust manifold connection allowed hot gases to escape, causing the glowing condition and subsequent fire in the engine compartment. This mechanical failure led to the loss of manifold pressure and necessitated an emergency landing.
Probable cause
A loose exhaust manifold connection that resulted in a fire in the engine compartment.
What happened in the 3 Aug 1987 Piper PA-32RT accident near Oelwein, IA?
During a personal night cross-country flight, the pilot detected an engine compartment glow and loss of manifold pressure. The aircraft made an emergency landing in a cornfield and was substantially damaged due to a loose exhaust connection.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Aug 1987 involved a Piper PA-32RT, registration N36646, at Oelwein, IA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A loose exhaust manifold connection that resulted in a fire in the engine compartment.
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