Casualties unknown

1995-12-21: Cessna T210N (N5083C) — Indianapolis, IN

Indianapolis, IN, US

On December 21, 1995, a Cessna T210N (registration N5083C) was involved in an aviation accident near Indianapolis, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A piece of the snap ring from the turbocharger jammed between the oil scavenge pump gears and case, causing the oil pump to fail, resulting in no oil pressure and a total 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 APIEditorial standards

An engine failure occurred after a snap ring from a turbocharger, rebuilt with automotive parts, jammed the oil scavenge pump, causing loss of oil pressure. The airplane sustained propeller and fuselage damage during the emergency landing.

Incident Overview

A pilot experienced a sudden engine power surge followed by a loud bang from the engine area, resulting in a total loss of engine power. The pilot subsequently performed an emergency landing, during which the airplane's propeller, fuselage bulkheads, and lower fuselage skin were bent.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the engine revealed that a piece of the snap ring from the turbocharger had become jammed between the oil scavenge pump gears and the oil scavenge pump case. This obstruction caused the oil pump to fail, leading to a complete loss of oil pressure and, consequently, a total loss of engine power.

It was further noted that the center section of the turbocharger had been rebuilt using automotive parts, though the source does not establish a direct causal link between this modification and the failure.

Probable cause

A piece of the snap ring from the turbocharger jammed between the oil scavenge pump gears and case, causing the oil pump to fail, resulting in no oil pressure and a total loss of engine power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04981. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.