What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-02-05 involved a Cessna 310L, registration N157JW, at Valparaiso, IN.

Pilot Reports Vacuum Failure During Descent into Icing Conditions; No Mechanical Malfunction Found (N157JW)

On February 5, 1995, a Cessna 310L (registration N157JW) was involved in an aviation accident near Valparaiso, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: spatial disorientation of the pilot while descending into the clouds. Factors were the moderate turbulance and snow. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot reported a vacuum failure while descending into a cloud layer with moderate turbulence and moderate rime icing. Investigation found no evidence of airframe or engine malfunction, and vacuum pumps operated normally.

Incident Overview

While descending into a cloud layer with reported moderate turbulence and moderate rime icing, a pilot reported a vacuum system failure. According to the communication, the pilot stated, "I have a little vacuum failure. I'm gonna climb outta here." This report came immediately after the pilot received a new frequency assignment.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of an airframe or engine malfunction. Both vacuum pumps were bench tested and operated normally. Inspection of all vacuum system components showed no evidence of preimpact malfunction.

Component Examination

The drums on the vacuum-driven vertical and horizontal gyros, as well as the electric turn-and-bank gyro, displayed substantial rotational scoring. This scoring indicates that the gyros were rotating at the time of impact, but no other anomalies were detected in the vacuum system.

Conclusion

Investigators were unable to identify a mechanical cause for the reported vacuum failure. The source does not state a probable cause for the incident.

1995-02-05: Cessna 310L (N157JW) — Valparaiso, IN