What happened
The aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power while cruising at altitude. Despite the pilot's efforts to reach the intended destination, the airplane was unable to make it to the selected airport. The pilot attempted a landing approximately one-half mile from the runway but collided with a ravine during the approach.
The investigation
A teardown examination of the affected engine was conducted to determine the cause of the power loss. The inspection revealed that the number two exhaust valve had failed due to fatigue. Records indicated that the engine had been overhauled approximately nine years prior to the accident and had accumulated about 1,443 flight hours since that overhaul.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the fatigue failure of the number two exhaust valve, which resulted in a total loss of engine power. The age of the last overhaul and the time-in-service on the component were noted as relevant factors in the mechanical failure.