On July 18, 1998, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N54R) was involved in an aviation accident near Napoleon, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot inadequate pre-flight planning. Factors in this accident were the airplane's weight and balance limitations had been exceeded by the pilot and an improper top overhaul of the engine's cylinder by the mechanic. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot reported using about two-thirds of the 2,550-foot runway before rotation, and the airplane felt sluggish. During initial climb, the left wing struck an antenna on a building. The airplane then descended, hitting power lines, a fence, a road sign, and the ground. Investigation revealed the airplane was 100 pounds over maximum gross weight and engine cylinder issues.
Accident Sequence
According to the pilot, the airplane utilized approximately two-thirds of the 2,550-foot runway before rotating for liftoff. The pilot stated that the airplane felt "sluggish" as it passed over the departure runway's threshold. During the initial climb, the left wing of the airplane struck an antenna attached to a building. Following the impact, the airplane descended below power lines and subsequently collided with a fence and a road sign before striking the ground.
Investigation Findings
An on-scene investigation determined that the airplane was 100 pounds over its maximum gross takeoff weight. The engine had undergone a top overhaul two days prior to the accident. Examination of the engine revealed low compression on the number 3 cylinder. Further examination of that cylinder showed that both its exhaust and intake valve heads were below the manufacturer's minimum diameter. Additionally, the valve heads and seats were not ground to the manufacturer's specification, and the valve stem diameter was below the manufacturer's size.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 18 Jul 1998 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Napoleon, MI?
The pilot reported using about two-thirds of the 2,550-foot runway before rotation, and the airplane felt sluggish. During initial climb, the left wing struck an antenna on a building. The airplane then descended, hitting power lines, a fence, a road sign, and the ground. Investigation revealed the airplane was 100…
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Jul 1998 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N54R, at Napoleon, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot inadequate pre-flight planning. Factors in this accident were the airplane's weight and balance limitations had been exceeded by the pilot and an improper top overhaul of the engine's cylinder by the mechanic.