On December 11, 1991, a Luscombe 8-F (registration N1871B) operated by Paul A. Sensor was involved in an aviation accident near Chapin, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of a connecting rod, which resulted in a catastrophic engine failure and subsequent loss of power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot experienced a total loss of power due to engine vibration and executed a forced landing on a rural road, resulting in the aircraft nosing over into a snow drift.
What happened
The pilot reported noticing significant engine vibration shortly before experiencing a complete loss of power. In response to the emergency, the pilot initiated a forced landing on a nearby rural road. During the landing roll, the airplane departed the roadway and struck a snow drift, which caused the aircraft to nose over.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed that a connecting rod had failed. This mechanical failure was determined to be the direct cause of the catastrophic engine failure observed during the flight.
Probable cause
The failure of a connecting rod, which resulted in a catastrophic engine failure and subsequent loss of power.
What happened in the 11 Dec 1991 Luscombe 8-F accident near Chapin, IA?
The pilot experienced a total loss of power due to engine vibration and executed a forced landing on a rural road, resulting in the aircraft nosing over into a snow drift.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Dec 1991 involved a Luscombe 8-F, registration N1871B, operated by Paul A. Sensor, at Chapin, IA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The failure of a connecting rod, which resulted in a catastrophic engine failure and subsequent loss of power.
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