On July 15, 1998, a Cessna 185E (registration N2750J) was involved in an aviation accident near Mcgrath, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for a undetermined reasons. A contributing factor was the trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a climb to cruise, an airplane experienced an engine shudder and total power loss. The pilot made a forced landing on a dirt road, striking trees and sustaining substantial damage. The aircraft remains unrecovered in a remote location.
Incident Overview
The pilot was en route to a repair station for an engine inspection. The decision to seek inspection followed the observation of metal particulate matter in the engine oil during a recent oil change. While climbing to cruise altitude, the engine shuddered and subsequently lost all power.
Forced Landing
Unable to return to the departure airport, the pilot executed a forced landing onto a nearby dirt road. During the landing, the airplane collided with trees lining the road, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.
Damage and Recovery
The accident site is situated in a remote location. As of the time of reporting, the aircraft has not been recovered, nor has it been inspected by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).