Pilot Debrief

FERGUSON WILLIAM C FX4-2 near Cartersville, GA — 2010-03-19

Final reportERA10LA179
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Date
2010-03-19
Location
Cartersville, GA, USA
Airport
VPC
Aircraft
FERGUSON WILLIAM C FX4-2
Registration
N8508H
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

The failure of the engine-driven oil pump drive coupling resulting in a loss lubrication and subsequent loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The pilot and certified flight instructor (CFI) were practicing takeoffs and landings. On the fourth takeoff, the airplane lifted off and the engine temperatures were within the normal range. At traffic pattern altitude, the pilot reduced power and turned left to enter the downwind leg of the traffic pattern. Shortly after making the turn, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The CFI took control of the airplane as the pilot restarted the engine. The engine regained full power for about five seconds and then shut down again. The CFI maneuvered the airplane for an off-airport landing in a pasture adjacent to the runway. The airplane landed hard and subsequently pivoted up on the nose cone before coming to a stop. During a postaccident examination and test run of the engine the two-cycle engine started and ran continuously on the airframe. When the engine was accelerated to full throttle, it lost power. Further examination revealed a failure of the engine-driven oil pump drive coupling. The resultant loss of lubrication and increased heat melted the rear piston lands over the piston rings. This led to a loss of cylinder compression and subsequent loss of engine power.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked fuel levels before the fourth takeoff.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 9 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents9

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