Pilot Debrief

Stearman A75N1(PT17) near Sequim, WA — 2019-04-28

Final reportWPR19LA125
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Date
2019-04-28
Location
Sequim, WA, USA
Aircraft
Stearman A75N1(PT17)
Registration
N68825
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power due to the fatigue failure of the crankshaft.

NTSB narrative

Shortly after takeoff for a personal flight, about 1,200 ft mean sea level, the pilot observed spraying oil and light oil smoke and detected the smell of oil coupled with an engine vibration. The pilot decided to make a forced landing. The engine vibration increased, and the engine seized before landing. The forced landing resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. Examination of the radial engine revealed a crankshaft failure due to fatigue; beach marks (also known as arrest marks) were observed in the region of the fracture surface. The maintenance records indicated that the last engine overhaul was accomplished about 15 years before the accident. Engine time since major overhaul recorded at the last annual inspection about 9 months before the accident was 143 hours.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have returned to the airport before engine issues escalated.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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