On May 24, 1989, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N3940X) operated by James, Rodney C. was involved in an aviation accident near Edmond, OK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER MAINTENANCE PERFORMED BY THE COMPANY MECHANIC WHO FAILED TO TIGHTEN THE OIL SUMP PLUG, AND ALSO FAILED TO SAFETY IT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a night cross-country flight, the pilot experienced rapid oil pressure loss and propeller overspeed, leading to complete engine failure. The forced landing resulted in landing gear shearing off after striking a fence. Inspection revealed no oil, a missing sump plug, and a hole in the number two cylinder.
Incident Overview
A single-engine airplane was on a personal night cross-country flight when the pilot observed a rapid loss of oil pressure accompanied by a full increase in propeller RPM. The pilot immediately initiated a diversion toward the nearest airport, but the engine failed completely before reaching the destination.
Forced Landing
During the subsequent forced landing, the airplane touched down short of an iron pipe fence. The pilot attempted to lift the airplane over the fence, but the landing gear struck the top of the fence and sheared off. The airplane came to rest beyond the fence.
Post-Accident Inspection
An inspection of the engine revealed the following: there was no oil in the engine; the sump plug was missing from the engine; and there was no evidence that the sump plug had ever been safetied. Additionally, the number two cylinder had a hole in it.
What happened in the 24 May 1989 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Edmond, OK?
During a night cross-country flight, the pilot experienced rapid oil pressure loss and propeller overspeed, leading to complete engine failure. The forced landing resulted in landing gear shearing off after striking a fence. Inspection revealed no oil, a missing sump plug, and a hole in the number two cylinder.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 May 1989 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N3940X, operated by James, Rodney C., at Edmond, OK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
IMPROPER MAINTENANCE PERFORMED BY THE COMPANY MECHANIC WHO FAILED TO TIGHTEN THE OIL SUMP PLUG, AND ALSO FAILED TO SAFETY IT.
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