Casualties unknown

2001-03-31: Stinson 108-1 (N8158K) — John Sultzbaugh — Redlands, CA

Redlands, CA, US

On March 31, 2001, a Stinson 108-1 (registration N8158K) operated by John Sultzbaugh was involved in an aviation accident near Redlands, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A total loss of engine power during cruise flight over rough terrain for undetermined non-mechanical reasons. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced total loss of engine power 13 minutes after takeoff. Emergency actions failed, leading to a forced landing 1.5 miles from destination, where the airplane hit a berm. Post-accident teardown found no preimpact malfunction.

Event Details

Before departure, the fuel tanks had been refueled. Approximately 13 minutes into the cruise, the pilot experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot reported no vibration prior to the power loss.

Emergency Actions

In an attempt to restore engine power, the pilot applied carburetor heat, changed the mixture setting, and repositioned the ignition key. None of these actions were successful. The pilot executed a forced landing about 1.5 miles north-northeast of the destination.

Landing and Collision

During the landing rollout in rough terrain, the airplane collided with a berm.

Post-Accident Examination

The airplane was subsequently examined. A teardown inspection of the engine and accessories revealed no evidence of any preimpact malfunction. Both the carburetor finger screen and the gascolator fuel screen were observed to be clear. The magnetos were functional, and the carburetor heat control worked. The reason for the non-mechanical total loss of engine power was not determined. The airplane was manufactured in 1946.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010412X00743. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.