On September 21, 1995, a Bell 47G (registration N616X) operated by Gordon Wade was involved in an aviation accident near Union City, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A #4 connecting rod bolt failed, resulting in engine stoppage. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A helicopter experienced severe vibration in flight, prompting an emergency autorotation. During landing in a bean field, the skids caught, causing a rollover and subsequent fire. Post-crash inspection revealed a failed #4 connecting rod bolt leading to engine stoppage.
Incident Details
While in flight, the pilot detected a severe vibration. He elected to perform an emergency autorotation to manage the situation. The helicopter touched down with forward speed in a flat, open bean field. During the landing, the skids became entangled in the bean plants, causing the helicopter to roll over. Shortly after the rollover, a cabin fire ignited.
Engine Examination
A post-crash teardown of the engine was conducted. Examination revealed that a #4 connecting rod bolt had failed. This failure resulted in an engine stoppage during the flight, which likely led to the vibration that prompted the autorotation.
No further details regarding the aircraft, occupants, or environmental conditions were provided in the investigation report.
Probable cause
A #4 connecting rod bolt failed, resulting in engine stoppage.