On November 14, 1993, a Cessna 182 (registration N5723B) was involved in an aviation accident near Colusa, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The last maintenance facility to overhaul the engine failed to nitride and harden the cam gears as required, resulting in fatigue failure of the cam and crankshaft gears. 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.
During a night VFR flight, the airplane experienced a total loss of power while descending. Unable to reach an airport, the pilot attempted to land in a field but hit power lines. Investigation found the engine's cam gears failed due to improper hardening during overhaul.
Accident Summary
During a night visual flight rules (VFR) flight, the pilot was descending to a lower altitude when the airplane sustained a total loss of power. The airplane's altitude was insufficient to reach the closest airport. The pilot turned on the landing lights and elected to land in an open field. On final approach, the pilot observed some power lines crossing the path. He attempted to maneuver beneath the power lines but was unsuccessful; the airplane clipped the lines and crashed.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the engine disclosed that the last maintenance facility to overhaul the engine failed to nitride and harden the cam gears as required. The cam and crankshaft gears subsequently failed in fatigue, leading to the total loss of power.
Probable cause
The last maintenance facility to overhaul the engine failed to nitride and harden the cam gears as required, resulting in fatigue failure of the cam and crankshaft gears.
What happened in the 14 Nov 1993 Cessna 182 accident near Colusa, CA?
During a night VFR flight, the airplane experienced a total loss of power while descending. Unable to reach an airport, the pilot attempted to land in a field but hit power lines. Investigation found the engine's cam gears failed due to improper hardening during overhaul.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Nov 1993 involved a Cessna 182, registration N5723B, at Colusa, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The last maintenance facility to overhaul the engine failed to nitride and harden the cam gears as required, resulting in fatigue failure of the cam and crankshaft gears.
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