On September 5, 1992, a Cessna 140 (registration N2059V) operated by Immel, Roy was involved in an aviation accident near Blairsville, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A COMPLETE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER WHICH RESULTED FROM TWO STUCK EXHAUST VALVES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After being parked for several days, an airplane was refueled by the pilot. Five minutes into flight, the engine lost power, forcing a landing in a field. Examination revealed two exhaust valves stuck open due to carbon deposits on the valve stems.
Incident Summary
The pilot refueled the airplane after it had been parked on the ramp for several days. Following the preflight inspection, the pilot took off. Five minutes into the flight, the engine lost power, prompting the pilot to execute a forced landing in a field.
Post-Accident Examination
The post-accident engine examination revealed that two exhaust valves were stuck in the open position. Both valves were forcibly removed from the engine. Further examination showed that the valve stems were coated with a layer of carbon. This carbon buildup prevented normal valve movement.
Additional Information
The pilot routinely used automotive fuel in the airplane. Additionally, both oil and fuel additives were used on a regular basis.