On March 15, 1994, a Piper PA-28RT-201T (registration N8335X) was involved in an aviation accident near Warfordsburg, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The number 2 main bearing shifted forward, blocking the oil supply to this bearing. Eventually the bearing overheated, and the connecting rod failed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While cruising at 5,000 feet, the pilot noted oil pressure fluctuations dropping to zero. The engine ran rough with smoke from the cowling, prompting a shutdown and forced landing on a snow-covered field. Landing gear collapsed during rollout. Inspection found a shifted main bearing that blocked oil, overheated, and fractured the connecting rod.
Accident Narrative
During a cruise at an altitude of 5,000 feet, the pilot observed the oil pressure gauge fluctuating before it dropped to zero. Shortly thereafter, the engine began to run roughly, and smoke was seen emanating from the cowling. The pilot responded by shutting down the engine and initiating a forced landing. The aircraft touched down on a snow-covered field, but during the landing roll, the landing gear collapsed.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the engine was conducted to determine the cause of the failure. It revealed that the number 2 cylinder connecting rod had fractured. Further inspection showed that the number 2 main bearing had shifted forward from its normal position. This displacement blocked the oil supply to that bearing. As a result, the bearing overheated, leading to the eventual failure of the connecting rod. The shifted bearing and subsequent overheating were identified as the direct causes of the connecting rod fracture.
Probable cause
The number 2 main bearing shifted forward, blocking the oil supply to this bearing. Eventually the bearing overheated, and the connecting rod failed.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Mar 1994 Piper PA-28RT-201T accident near Warfordsburg, PA?
While cruising at 5,000 feet, the pilot noted oil pressure fluctuations dropping to zero. The engine ran rough with smoke from the cowling, prompting a shutdown and forced landing on a snow-covered field. Landing gear collapsed during rollout. Inspection found a shifted main bearing that blocked oil, overheated, and…
Were there any fatalities in the 15 Mar 1994 Piper PA-28RT-201T accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Mar 1994 involved a Piper PA-28RT-201T, registration N8335X, at Warfordsburg, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The number 2 main bearing shifted forward, blocking the oil supply to this bearing. Eventually the bearing overheated, and the connecting rod failed.