Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA 28R-200 near Frankenmuth, MI — 2015-02-27

Final reportCEN15LA157
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Date
2015-02-27
Location
Frankenmuth, MI, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA 28R-200
Registration
N2837R
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

The failure of the engine due to a lack of oil lubrication for reasons that could not be determined during postaccident examinations.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during climbout on the return leg of an out-and-back flight, he noticed the engine hesitate for 1 or 2 seconds and then recover to normal operation. The pilot continued climbing the airplane and proceeded toward his home airport. While approaching the airport, the engine made abnormal noises, followed by a total loss of power. The pilot then executed a forced landing into a field. Postaccident examinations of the engine revealed that it had a very low quantity of oil; however, no visible evidence of oil loss or indication of excess oil consumption was found. A teardown examination of the engine revealed that all four piston connecting rods had failed. The failure signatures were consistent with a lack of lubrication. Based on the evidence, it is likely that the engine failed due to a lack of oil lubrication; however, the reason for the lack of oil could not be determined.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have added oil before the flight to prevent engine failure.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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