On September 15, 2002, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-CD (registration N3989H) was involved in an aviation accident near Effingham, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An engine exhaust valve was stuck in the open position. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane received substantial damage after losing engine power shortly after takeoff and nosing over during a forced landing in a cornfield. Post-accident examination revealed a stuck exhaust valve.
Accident Overview
An airplane sustained substantial damage when it experienced a loss of engine power after takeoff and subsequently nosed over during a forced landing to a cornfield.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the preflight inspection, engine start, and taxi were all normal. After takeoff, the airplane climbed to about 300 feet above ground level (agl) when it began to lose power. The pilot then executed a forced landing to a cornfield.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that an engine exhaust valve was stuck in the open position.
Probable cause
An engine exhaust valve was stuck in the open position.
What happened in the 15 Sept 2002 Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-CD accident near Effingham, IL?
An airplane received substantial damage after losing engine power shortly after takeoff and nosing over during a forced landing in a cornfield. Post-accident examination revealed a stuck exhaust valve.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Sept 2002 involved an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-CD, registration N3989H, at Effingham, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
An engine exhaust valve was stuck in the open position.
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