On July 9, 1988, a Cessna TU206G (registration N6106U) operated by Spokane Airways Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Palo Alto, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power due to the missing governor idler gear stud, which allowed the idler gear to float and wear through the governor housing, resulting in oil loss and engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a flight, low oil pressure preceded engine failure. A forced landing on a road resulted in collision with telephone wires and terrain. Inspection revealed a missing governor idler gear stud.
Accident Details
During a local flight, the pilot observed low oil pressure. While en route to the airport, the engine failed, necessitating a forced landing on a road. During the landing, the airplane collided with telephone wires and subsequently struck the terrain.
Post-Accident Inspection
Inspection of the engine found that the governor idler gear stud that secures the idler gear in place was missing. The gear was floating freely within a small cavity and had worn a hole through the propeller governor housing. Metal particles were discovered in the oil pan and oil filter.
Maintenance History
The engine had undergone an overhaul only 3 operating hours prior to the accident.
Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to the missing governor idler gear stud, which allowed the idler gear to float and wear through the governor housing, resulting in oil loss and engine failure.
What happened in the 9 Jul 1988 Cessna TU206G accident near Palo Alto, CA?
During a flight, low oil pressure preceded engine failure. A forced landing on a road resulted in collision with telephone wires and terrain. Inspection revealed a missing governor idler gear stud.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Jul 1988 involved a Cessna TU206G, registration N6106U, operated by Spokane Airways Inc., at Palo Alto, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The loss of engine power due to the missing governor idler gear stud, which allowed the idler gear to float and wear through the governor housing, resulting in oil loss and engine failure.
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