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Engine Failure Due to Magneto Coil Shorts Leads to Forced Landing Near Medicine Bow (N4300V)

Medicine Bow, WY, US

On December 10, 1994, a Piper PA-28-236 (registration N4300V) was involved in an aviation accident near Medicine Bow, WY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Both magneto coils shorted to the magneto housing; one coil had burned through its insulation, and the other showed signs of arcing through cracks in its insulation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power at 11,500 feet MSL, prompting a forced landing near Medicine Bow, Wyoming. The landing was successful but resulted in gear collapse on rough terrain. Investigation revealed shorted magneto coils.

Incident Overview

While cruising at an altitude of 11,500 feet MSL, the aircraft suffered a complete loss of engine power. Unable to restore power, the pilot elected to perform a forced landing near Medicine Bow, Wyoming. The touchdown was successful, but during the landing roll on rough and uneven terrain, the nose gear and right main gear collapsed.

Investigation Findings

Subsequent examination of the engine revealed that both magneto coils had shorted to the magneto housing. One coil had burned through its insulation, and the other showed evidence of arcing through a number of cracks in its insulation. These failures were determined to be the cause of the loss of engine power.

Aftermath

The aircraft came to rest on the terrain following the gear collapse. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries were provided in the source material.

Probable cause

Both magneto coils shorted to the magneto housing; one coil had burned through its insulation, and the other showed signs of arcing through cracks in its insulation.
Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Dec 1994 Piper PA-28-236 accident near Medicine Bow, WY?

An aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power at 11,500 feet MSL, prompting a forced landing near Medicine Bow, Wyoming. The landing was successful but resulted in gear collapse on rough terrain. Investigation revealed shorted magneto coils.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 Dec 1994 Piper PA-28-236 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Dec 1994 involved a Piper PA-28-236, registration N4300V, at Medicine Bow, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Both magneto coils shorted to the magneto housing; one coil had burned through its insulation, and the other showed signs of arcing through cracks in its insulation.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02800. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.