On July 21, 1988, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N6441P) was involved in an aviation accident near Chico, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The breakage of the oil cooler hose, which resulted in a loss of oil pressure and engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a cross-country flight, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of oil pressure followed by an engine failure caused by a broken oil cooler hose, resulting in a forced landing short of the destination airport.
What happened
While operating a cross-country flight, the pilot observed a significant drop in oil pressure. Shortly after this initial indication, a loud bang was heard, and the engine subsequently lost power. The pilot initiated a forced landing attempt but was unable to reach the intended airport. The aircraft collided with terrain during the landing roll short of the runway.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft's engine was conducted to determine the mechanical cause of the failure. The examination revealed that the oil cooler hose had broken, which led to the loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine shutdown.
Probable cause
The breakage of the oil cooler hose, which resulted in a loss of oil pressure and engine power.
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