Engine Power Loss During Flight Leads to Crash Near Lake Havasu Airport (N466KT)

Incident Overview During flight at 8,000 feet, the aircraft's engine lost power. The pilot attempted to make a forced landing at Lake Havasu Airport but was unable to reach the facility. Instead, the pilot selected a roadway approximately 2.5 miles south of the airport for a landing. During the final approach to the roadway, the aircraft struck a vehicle. ## Investigation Findings A metallurgical examination revealed that the inboard boss of the number two cylinder had been welded. This weld repair is specifically prohibited by Teledyne Continental Motors Specification MHS 217. The unapproved weld resulted in significant softening of the inboard boss and a reduction in fatigue strength. ## Maintenance Records The aircraft records indicated that the cylinders had been purchased at an auction, and the maintenance history of the cylinders is unknown. The records did not reflect that any welding repairs were performed on the number two cylinder.