On July 29, 1990, a Cessna 172B (registration N8091X) was involved in an aviation accident near Midway, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: TOTAL FAILURE OF THE NUMBER FOUR EXHAUST VALVE, RESULTING IN ENGINE POWER LOSS AND THE SUBSEQUENT FORCED LANDING OF THE AIRPLANE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine binding noise and power loss, leading to a forced landing in a cornfield. The aircraft nosed over after contacting a ditch, resulting in substantial damage. Examination revealed a failed exhaust valve in the number four cylinder.
Incident Overview
Approximately 20 minutes into the flight, the pilot noticed the engine making a binding noise and operating under slight strain. While returning to the airport, the engine began to lose power, and the pilot could no longer maintain altitude. The airplane was force-landed in a cornfield. During the landing, the aircraft contacted a ditch and nosed over, resulting in substantial damage.
Engine Examination
Post-incident examination of the engine revealed that the number four cylinder exhaust valve had failed. The loose valve entered the cylinder, damaging and seizing the piston, and subsequently breaking the connecting rod. The valves had last been replaced during a major overhaul in 1971. Approximately 681 hours had been logged since that overhaul.
What happened in the 29 Jul 1990 Cessna 172B accident near Midway, TN?
A pilot reported engine binding noise and power loss, leading to a forced landing in a cornfield. The aircraft nosed over after contacting a ditch, resulting in substantial damage. Examination revealed a failed exhaust valve in the number four cylinder.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Jul 1990 involved a Cessna 172B, registration N8091X, at Midway, TN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
TOTAL FAILURE OF THE NUMBER FOUR EXHAUST VALVE, RESULTING IN ENGINE POWER LOSS AND THE SUBSEQUENT FORCED LANDING OF THE AIRPLANE.
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