Casualties unknown

1993-07-08: Mooney M20J (N3896H) — Capps, William R. — Magee, MS

Magee, MS, US

On July 8, 1993, a Mooney M20J (registration N3896H) operated by Capps, William R. was involved in an aviation accident near Magee, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Oil starvation resulting from oil exiting past a missing gasket section and an incorrect stud on the oil filter adapter plate. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A mechanic did not run the engine after an oil change to check for leaks. During cruise, the engine seized due to oil starvation from a missing gasket section and incorrect stud, forcing a gear-up landing.

Incident Overview

The day before the accident flight, a mechanic changed the engine oil but did not run the engine afterward to check for oil leaks. The pilot reported that the oil quantity was full before departure.

Engine Failure and Forced Landing

During cruise flight, the engine seized. The pilot executed a forced landing in a field with the landing gear retracted.

Post-Accident Examination

The engine was removed and sent to the manufacturer for examination. Inspection revealed that a section of gasket between the accessory case and the oil filter adapter plate was missing. Additionally, the oil filter adapter plate stud, which secures the plate to the accessory case, was incorrect. As a result, the adapter plate was loose.

Cause of Engine Failure

The engine quit due to oil starvation, which was caused by the oil exiting the engine past the missing gasket and loose adapter plate.

Probable cause

Oil starvation resulting from oil exiting past a missing gasket section and an incorrect stud on the oil filter adapter plate.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12982. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.