On January 17, 1989, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N4763T) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Myers, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the #5 connecting rod cap bolt, which resulted in further damage of the engine. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During initial climb after takeoff, a pilot heard a pop followed by rough engine operation. After turning back, a loud noise preceded progressive power loss, resulting in a night emergency landing in a marshy area. Examination revealed a failed #5 connecting rod cap bolt.
Event Description
The pilot reported that during the initial climb after takeoff, a popping sound was heard, and the engine began running rough. The pilot turned the aircraft back toward the airport. Approximately two minutes later, a loud noise occurred, followed by a progressive loss of all engine power. The aircraft subsequently sustained damage during an emergency landing at night in a marshy area, located about one to two miles from the airport.
Examination Findings
An examination of the engine revealed that the #5 connecting rod cap bolt had failed. This failure resulted in additional damage to the engine.
Probable cause
Failure of the #5 connecting rod cap bolt, which resulted in further damage of the engine.
What happened in the 17 Jan 1989 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Fort Myers, FL?
During initial climb after takeoff, a pilot heard a pop followed by rough engine operation. After turning back, a loud noise preceded progressive power loss, resulting in a night emergency landing in a marshy area. Examination revealed a failed #5 connecting rod cap bolt.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Jan 1989 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N4763T, at Fort Myers, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Failure of the #5 connecting rod cap bolt, which resulted in further damage of the engine.
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