What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-03-15 involved a Cessna 177B, registration N35138, at Collegedale, TN.

Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing Short of Runway (N35138)

On March 15, 1995, a Cessna 177B (registration N35138) was involved in an aviation accident near Collegedale, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The mechanic's failure to install new parts as directed by a mandatory service bulletin, and the owner's decision not to install new hoses as prescribed by the bulletin, leading to the oil cooler return line separation and subsequent loss of engine power. 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 1781061362Data API Editorial standards

During a test flight, an airplane experienced a complete loss of engine power after the oil pressure dropped. The pilot attempted an emergency landing at Collegedale Airport but struck terrain 50 feet short of Runway 03. Investigation revealed an oil cooler return line separation and maintenance non-compliance with a mandatory service bulletin.

Accident Overview

About four months before the accident, the engine was removed from the airplane and overhauled by a local mechanic. The engine was installed the day before the accident. According to the investigation, during the engine installation, the mechanic failed to install new parts as directed by a mandatory service bulletin.

Flight and Power Loss

After a brief period of ground operation, the pilot departed for a test flight. Approximately five minutes into the flight, the engine lost oil pressure, which subsequently resulted in a complete loss of engine power. The pilot established an emergency descent for a forced landing at Collegedale Airport.

Collision with Terrain

The airplane collided with rising terrain 50 feet short of Runway 03. A film of engine oil was discovered over the aircraft skin aft of the engine compartment.

Wreckage Examination

Wreckage examination disclosed that the oil cooler return line separated at the metal fitting. According to the installation mechanic, the owner decided not to install new hoses as prescribed by a mandatory service bulletin.

Probable cause

The mechanic's failure to install new parts as directed by a mandatory service bulletin, and the owner's decision not to install new hoses as prescribed by the bulletin, leading to the oil cooler return line separation and subsequent loss of engine power.

1995-03-15: Cessna 177B (N35138) — Collegedale, TN