On July 2, 1990, a Cessna 152 (registration N48418) operated by Aviation Facilities, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Fullerton, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE WARPED CONDITION OF THE ENGINE VALVES AND VALVE SEATS DUE TO EXCESSIVE AND REPEATED THERMAL SHOCK CYCLES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 10 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot performed a forced landing on a dirt road after engine power dropped. The aircraft nosed over after contacting ground obstacles. Investigation found warped valves and valve seats.
Accident Overview
A student pilot reported that while flying toward the airport, the engine power output suddenly dropped and varied between 900 and 1,400 RPM. The power was insufficient to maintain flight, and the student realized he could not reach the airport. He sighted a level dirt road at a construction site and executed a forced landing. During the landing roll, the aircraft contacted ground obstacles and nosed over.
Investigation Findings
A teardown inspection of the engine revealed that all valves and valve seats were warped, with evidence of exhaust gases entering the intake ports. The engine was reportedly at its time between overhaul (TBO) interval.
What happened in the 2 Jul 1990 Cessna 152 accident near Fullerton, CA?
A student pilot performed a forced landing on a dirt road after engine power dropped. The aircraft nosed over after contacting ground obstacles. Investigation found warped valves and valve seats.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Jul 1990 involved a Cessna 152, registration N48418, operated by Aviation Facilities, Inc., at Fullerton, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE WARPED CONDITION OF THE ENGINE VALVES AND VALVE SEATS DUE TO EXCESSIVE AND REPEATED THERMAL SHOCK CYCLES.
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