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Casualties unknown

Oil Pressure Drop Followed by Engine Power Loss and Forced Landing (N2473X)

Wenatchee, WA, US

On August 10, 1990, a Cessna 182H (registration N2473X) operated by Porter, David R. was involved in an aviation accident near Wenatchee, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: IMPROPER INSTALLATION OF THE OIL FILTER GASKET BY MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL RESULTING IN LOSS OF ENGINE OIL AND SEIZURE OF THE ENGINE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff, an airplane experienced a partial engine power loss and oil pressure dropping to zero. The pilot attempted to return but the engine failed, leading to a forced landing in a wheat field and a nose-over. Investigation revealed a creased oil gasket.

Sequence of Events

Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost partial power and the pilot observed that oil pressure had dropped to zero. The pilot turned around to return to the airport. En route, the engine lost all power, and a forced landing was made in a wheat field. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed over.

Post-Accident Inspection

During the post-crash inspection, it was found that the oil gasket was creased or folded over approximately halfway around the outer edge. A small notch of rubber was missing from the outer edge of the gasket. The aircraft's oil filter and oil had been changed just prior to this flight, and this was the first flight after that maintenance.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Aug 1990 Cessna 182H accident near Wenatchee, WA?

After takeoff, an airplane experienced a partial engine power loss and oil pressure dropping to zero. The pilot attempted to return but the engine failed, leading to a forced landing in a wheat field and a nose-over. Investigation revealed a creased oil gasket.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Aug 1990 involved a Cessna 182H, registration N2473X, operated by Porter, David R., at Wenatchee, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

IMPROPER INSTALLATION OF THE OIL FILTER GASKET BY MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL RESULTING IN LOSS OF ENGINE OIL AND SEIZURE OF THE ENGINE.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24138. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.