On September 2, 1989, a Cessna 175 (registration N7174M) operated by Authur Bulter was involved in an aviation accident near Spruce Pine, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. THE POWER LOSS MAY HAVE BEEN DUE TO A STICKING VALVE(S). This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experiencing engine roughness during a flight to Franklin made a precautionary landing in Blacksburg, Virginia. After maintenance, the engine ran normally but later failed again, leading to a crash 200 yards short of the runway.
Background
While en route to Franklin, the pilot experienced a rough-running engine and elected to land at an airport in Blacksburg, Virginia. During the subsequent maintenance action, all ignition leads were torqued. Following this work, the airplane operated normally.
Incident Sequence
Approximately one hour into the next leg of the flight, the engine again began running rough. The pilot decided to make another precautionary landing. During the approach, the airplane crashed 200 yards short of the runway.
According to reports, the airplane had a history of sticking valves. The pilot reportedly compared the failing engine's behavior to that of a sticking valve.