On March 31, 1997, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N2226T) was involved in an aviation accident near Continental, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: loss of engine power as a result of detonation in the number 2 cylinder for undetermined reasons. A factor in the accident was the unsuitable nature of the forced landing area. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced a loss of engine oil pressure and subsequent seizure. The instructor attempted a glide to a private strip but had insufficient altitude, executing a gear-up landing on rough terrain. Detonation damaged the number 2 cylinder, leading to oil flow restriction and rod bearing failure.
Engine Failure Sequence
The airplane lost engine oil pressure, followed by seizure of the engine. The flight instructor attempted to glide to a nearby private airstrip but determined that altitude was insufficient and elected to land with the landing gear retracted on rough, level terrain.
Examination Findings
Post-incident examination revealed evidence of detonation in the number 2 cylinder. The number 2 piston sustained damage, and aluminum debris from the piston restricted oil flow. As a result of the loss of lubrication, the number 2 piston rod bearing failed. One of the bolts attaching the number 2 piston rod cap subsequently broke, jamming the rotation of the crankshaft.
Undetermined Cause
The reason for the detonation in the number 2 cylinder could not be determined.