On October 20, 1991, a Piper PA-28R-201T (registration N1087H) operated by James J. Blount Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Monticello, UT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE/OVERHAUL OF THE ENGINE, AND SUBSEQUENT FAILURE OF THE #5 PISTON (HOLE BURNED IN PISTON), DUE TO PRE-IGNITION AND/OR DETONATION. ROUGH/UNEVEN TERRAIN IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA WAS A RELATED FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced engine roughness during cruise, then stopped running while turning base leg, resulting in a forced landing about 50 yards short of the runway. Examination revealed multiple mechanical issues.
Engine Failure During Cruise
Approximately five minutes after passing the Monticello Airport during cruise flight, the engine began running rough. The pilot reversed course to return to the airport for a precautionary landing. While turning onto the base leg, the engine stopped running.
Forced Landing
Subsequently, the aircraft was damaged during a forced landing approximately 50 yards short of the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the engine revealed the following findings:
No oil was present in the crankcase.
A hole was burned in the #5 piston due to pre-ignition/detonation.
There was evidence of arcing in the left magneto.
Contamination was found in the right magneto.
The fuel system was improperly adjusted.
The aircraft had accumulated 88 hours of flight time since a major overhaul of the engine was completed on July 12, 1991.
What happened in the 20 Oct 1991 Piper PA-28R-201T accident near Monticello, UT?
An aircraft experienced engine roughness during cruise, then stopped running while turning base leg, resulting in a forced landing about 50 yards short of the runway. Examination revealed multiple mechanical issues.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Oct 1991 Piper PA-28R-201T accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Oct 1991 involved a Piper PA-28R-201T, registration N1087H, operated by James J. Blount Jr., at Monticello, UT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE/OVERHAUL OF THE ENGINE, AND SUBSEQUENT FAILURE OF THE #5 PISTON (HOLE BURNED IN PISTON), DUE TO PRE-IGNITION AND/OR DETONATION. ROUGH/UNEVEN TERRAIN IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA WAS A RELATED FACTOR.
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