Accident Details
On November 1, 2019, at approximately 1350 central daylight time, a Cessna T210 (registration N732JW) was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Odessa, Texas. The private pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained serious injuries. The flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal operation.
The pilot reported departing with 120 gallons of fuel. The local fixed-base operator had added 60 gallons the previous day. The pilot recalled that about ten minutes into the flight, engine instruments indicated overheating and partial power loss. He adjusted the throttle, fuel, and cowl flap settings, noting that the propeller continued to rotate during the forced landing. During the landing roll, the airplane struck a hole, nosed over, and came to rest inverted.
Aircraft Information
The airplane was manufactured in 1976 and had been owned by the pilot since June 2011. It was equipped with a Continental Motors TSIO-520 series engine rated at 265 horsepower, which had been overhauled approximately 90 flight hours before the accident. The fuel system comprised two main tanks totaling 90 gallons and two wing tip tanks totaling 30 gallons, for an overall capacity of 120 gallons.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector examined the site and noted substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The fuel tanks remained intact, and there was no evidence of fuel spillage. During recovery, only two cups of fuel were drained from the right tank, while 25 gallons were drained from the left tank. The fuel selector was found in the right tank position.
Engine Examination
Under FAA supervision, the engine was inspected. Crankshaft and valvetrain continuity were confirmed. Magneto timing was normal, and spark was produced on all towers. The air intake and oil systems showed no anomalies. Cylinder walls were free of scuffing or damage. The fuel pump operated without issue, and no debris was present in the fuel screen. No mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal engine operation were found.