Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 177RG near Black River Falls, WI — 2009-07-31

Final reportCEN09LA487
Sign in to save
Date
2009-07-31
Location
Black River Falls, WI, USA
Airport
BCK
Aircraft
CESSNA 177RG
Registration
N2108Q
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

The loss of engine power during cruise due to the number two cylinder piston connecting rod failure for undetermined reasons.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he noticed the engine oil temperature indicator read too high during cruise. He opened the cowl flaps, reduced engine power, and enriched the mixture. He stated that the oil temperature decreased. However, he determined that it was still too high for safety purposes. The engine stopped and oil covered all but the far left side of the windshield. He declared an emergency, started gliding, and lowered the gear on approach. He said, “On final it became clear that I had circled to[o] wide to make the runway, but maintained best glide until striking the garage.” An examination of the airplane indicated that the number two cylinder piston connecting rod failed and fractured the top of the engine case. The cause of the piston rod failure was not determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have landed earlier after noticing high oil temperature.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

Related mishaps