On November 20, 1990, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N8774N) operated by Joyce, William D. was involved in an aviation accident near Winston-salem, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF A PISTON PIN PLUG WHICH RESULTED IN A TOTAL LOSS OF POWER. FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT WERE AN INADEQUATE ENGINE OVERHAUL WHICH LED TO PREMATURE ENGINE WEAR, AND THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO OBTAIN PROPER MAINTENANCE FOLLOWING A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL PRESSURE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced zero oil pressure after takeoff, turned back, and ditched in a lake when the engine quit. Teardown revealed a failed piston pin plug, worn camshaft lobes, and contaminated oil screen.
Accident Sequence
Several minutes after takeoff, the pilot observed a zero oil pressure indication. He turned the airplane back toward the airport. As the aircraft approached, engine rpm began to decay and then the engine ceased operation. The pilot executed a ditching in a lake approximately three miles from the airport.
Engine Examination
A teardown analysis of the engine disclosed a failed #1 cylinder piston pin plug. The intake lobes on the camshaft were severely worn, and the intake tappet bodies were severely spalled. Three connecting rods were also found to have failed. The oil pressure screen was contaminated with ferrous and non-ferrous particles.
The pilot reported that he had experienced a loss of oil pressure on another flight a few days prior to the accident.
What happened in the 20 Nov 1990 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Winston-salem, NC?
A pilot experienced zero oil pressure after takeoff, turned back, and ditched in a lake when the engine quit. Teardown revealed a failed piston pin plug, worn camshaft lobes, and contaminated oil screen.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Nov 1990 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N8774N, operated by Joyce, William D., at Winston-salem, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
FAILURE OF A PISTON PIN PLUG WHICH RESULTED IN A TOTAL LOSS OF POWER. FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT WERE AN INADEQUATE ENGINE OVERHAUL WHICH LED TO PREMATURE ENGINE WEAR, AND THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO OBTAIN PROPER MAINTENANCE FOLLOWING A LOSS OF ENGINE OIL PRESSURE.
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