On June 19, 1992, a Cessna 207 (registration N23CF) operated by Hageland Avn. Services, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Quinhagak, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO TOTAL OIL LOSS. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE SEPARATION OF THE OIL FILTER ADAPTER FROM THE OIL PUMP DUE TO IMPROPER MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES AND NON ADHERENCE TO RECOMMENDED DIRECTIVES BY COMPANY MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL, AND THE… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot noticed zero oil pressure. Before returning, the engine seized, forcing an off-airport landing. Substantial damage resulted. Investigation found the oil filter adapter had separated due to worn threads; it had been installed with water pump pliers instead of the specified wrench.
Event
Just after reducing engine power for the initial climb after takeoff, the pilot noticed that the oil pressure gauge indicated zero. The pilot aimed to return to the departure airport, but the engine seized before landing could be achieved. An off-airport forced landing was then performed.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage as a result of the forced landing.
Investigation
During the post-incident examination, it was found that the engine oil filter adapter had separated from the oil pump housing. This separation resulted in the complete loss of engine oil. The threads on both the adapter and the housing were observed to be worn and damaged. The adapter's most recent installation had been done using water pump pliers, instead of the special wrench required by the Cessna maintenance manual.