On March 27, 1997, a Stinson 108 (registration N97120) was involved in an aviation accident near Greenfield, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: a loss of engine power due to restricted movement in the exhaust valve and rotted/weathered ignition harness, and the pilot's failure to maintain airspeed which resulted in an inadvertant stall. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After takeoff, witnesses observed the airplane's engine sputter at approximately 200 feet, followed by a left bank and stall. Examination revealed stuck exhaust valves and cracked ignition harnesses, with three new harnesses improperly installed.
Accident Sequence
After takeoff, witnesses observed the airplane's engine sputter at approximately 200 feet over the departure end of the runway. The airplane then banked 40 to 90 degrees to the left and stalled.
Post-Accident Examination
Subsequent examination of the engine revealed stuck exhaust valves on the number one and number six cylinders. Both ignition harnesses had numerous cracks in the ground shielding, with electrical tape applied over some of the cracks. Three new ignition harnesses had been installed, but no maintenance entry was recorded in the engine logbook. The remaining ignition harnesses appeared to be the originals.
Prior Engine Loss
The pilot had experienced an engine loss two weeks prior to this accident. During that event, he flew the airplane back to the runway and landed on a taxiway.