Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Leads to Nosed-Over Forced Landing (N8274C)

Troutdale, OR, US

On September 29, 1992, a Piper PA-22-135 (registration N8274C) operated by Mcbride, Edward U. was involved in an aviation accident near Troutdale, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The separation of the number 3 cylinder exhaust valve, which resulted in a loss of engine power and a subsequent forced landing with nose gear collapse. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot executed a forced landing after an engine failure in cruise flight. The aircraft nosed over when the nose gear collapsed during touchdown on uneven terrain.

What happened

While the aircraft was operating in cruise flight, the engine began to exhibit rough running characteristics accompanied by significant vibration. The pilot attempted to maintain altitude but was unable to do so due to a loss of power. Consequently, the pilot executed a forced landing onto an uneven field. During the landing roll, the nose gear strut folded aft due to overload, causing the aircraft to nosed over.

The investigation

Subsequent disassembly of the engine revealed that the number 3 cylinder exhaust valve had separated at the neck just beneath the base of the valve head.

Probable cause

The separation of the number 3 cylinder exhaust valve, which resulted in a loss of engine power and a subsequent forced landing with nose gear collapse.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15790. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.