On February 6, 1990, a Piper PA28-180 (registration N5236L) was involved in an aviation accident near South Webster, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A material failure of the number 2 connecting rod assembly and connecting rod bolts, which resulted in a complete engine failure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private aircraft suffered a complete engine failure during personal flight, resulting in substantial damage from an off-airport forced landing on grass.
What happened
The accident airplane experienced a complete engine failure while conducting a personal flight. During the incident, all three landing gear failed as the aircraft approached a grassy soft field for an off-airport forced landing. The aircraft sustained substantial damage upon impact with the ground.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the airframe and propulsion system revealed significant mechanical issues. Investigators found a six-inch diameter hole in the top of the engine crankcase. Further examination identified a material failure of the number 2 connecting rod assembly, as well as failure of the connecting rod bolts.
Findings
The private certificated pilot and his two passengers were not injured in the incident. The mechanical failures observed during the inspection point to internal engine component fatigue or manufacturing defects leading to catastrophic engine separation.
Probable cause
A material failure of the number 2 connecting rod assembly and connecting rod bolts, which resulted in a complete engine failure.
What happened in the 6 Feb 1990 Piper PA28-180 accident near South Webster, OH?
A private aircraft suffered a complete engine failure during personal flight, resulting in substantial damage from an off-airport forced landing on grass.
Were there any fatalities in the 6 Feb 1990 Piper PA28-180 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Feb 1990 involved a Piper PA28-180, registration N5236L, at South Webster, OH.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A material failure of the number 2 connecting rod assembly and connecting rod bolts, which resulted in a complete engine failure.
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