On July 16, 1996, a Cessna 172N (registration N738NZ) operated by Barstow Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Daggett, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The fracture and separation of an exhaust valve head for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot lost engine power in cruise, attempted a landing on a desert road, but the road curved more than the aircraft could turn after touchdown, causing it to leave the road and hit a berm.
Accident Summary
The pilot reported that during cruise flight, the engine suddenly ran rough and lost power. He attempted to land on a desert road, but after touchdown, the road curved more than the aircraft could turn at its current speed. The aircraft departed the road and struck a berm.
Engine Examination
During recovery operations, an exhaust valve head fell out of the exhaust stack. Maintenance personnel noted that the fracture faces on the valve head and corresponding stem were obliterated due to peening.
Maintenance History
The engine had been overhauled approximately 24 hours prior to the accident.
What happened in the 16 Jul 1996 Cessna 172N accident near Daggett, CA?
A pilot lost engine power in cruise, attempted a landing on a desert road, but the road curved more than the aircraft could turn after touchdown, causing it to leave the road and hit a berm.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Jul 1996 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N738NZ, operated by Barstow Aviation, at Daggett, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The fracture and separation of an exhaust valve head for undetermined reasons.
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