Pilot Debrief

CESSNA T210M near Independence, MO — 2011-02-24

Final reportCEN11FA202
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Date
2011-02-24
Location
Independence, MO, USA
Airport
MKC
Aircraft
CESSNA T210M
Registration
N6149B
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

Latent dimensional discrepancies related to the engine crankcase main bearing saddle bores, which precipitated the fatigue failure of the crankshaft and a complete loss of engine power. Contributing to the accident was the engine manufacturer's failure to properly identify and address the crankcase discrepancies when the engine was rebuilt.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was in cruise flight when the engine began to run rough and lose power. Smoke began to enter the cockpit, and engine oil covered the windshield. The engine ultimately lost all power. The pilot executed a forced landing to a roadway, and the left wing struck a bridge guardrail. Examination of the engine revealed a fatigue failure of the crankshaft initiating at the No. 6 connecting rod journal. Further examination determined that several crankcase main bearing saddles were oversized compared to the required specifications. As a result, the crankshaft was not adequately supported within the crankcase during operation, which precipitated the fatigue failure of the crankshaft. Records indicated that the engine was initially manufactured with one oversized saddle bore. The manufacturer subsequently rebuilt the engine, which was installed on the accident airplane. At the time of the accident, the engine had accumulated 1,303.5 hours since it was rebuilt.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have diverted to nearest airport upon first sign of engine trouble.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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