On August 19, 1994, a Cessna 172XP (registration N9797V) was involved in an aviation accident near Clarksburg, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The alternator drive coupling failed, and debris from the coupling lodged in the engine oil pump drive, leading to a loss of engine oil pressure. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a flight, a pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power and made an emergency landing in a pasture; the airplane struck trees during rollout. Investigation revealed the alternator drive coupling failed, causing debris to lodge in the oil pump drive, resulting in loss of oil pressure.
Accident Overview
While en route to his destination airport, the pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power. The pilot selected a pasture and executed an emergency landing. During the rollout, the airplane collided with trees along a fence line.
Emergency Landing
The pilot safely guided the airplane to a pasture after the engine lost all power. The landing was conducted without incident until the airplane contacted trees on the ground, which occurred during the landing rollout.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination of the engine disclosed that the alternator drive coupling had failed. Debris from the failed coupling lodged in the engine oil pump drive. This obstruction caused the engine to experience a loss of engine oil pressure, likely leading to the power loss.
Probable cause
The alternator drive coupling failed, and debris from the coupling lodged in the engine oil pump drive, leading to a loss of engine oil pressure.
What happened in the 19 Aug 1994 Cessna 172XP accident near Clarksburg, TN?
During a flight, a pilot experienced a complete loss of engine power and made an emergency landing in a pasture; the airplane struck trees during rollout. Investigation revealed the alternator drive coupling failed, causing debris to lodge in the oil pump drive, resulting in loss of oil pressure.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 19 Aug 1994 involved a Cessna 172XP, registration N9797V, at Clarksburg, TN.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The alternator drive coupling failed, and debris from the coupling lodged in the engine oil pump drive, leading to a loss of engine oil pressure.
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