Pilot Debrief

MUELLER MICHAEL WALTER CHALLENGER II CW SPC near Sandwich, IL — 2012-10-07

Final reportCEN13IA008
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Date
2012-10-07
Location
Sandwich, IL, USA
Airport
IS65
Aircraft
MUELLER MICHAEL WALTER CHALLENGER II CW SPC
Registration
N530MW
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Takeoff roll

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to significant engine corrosion. Contributing to the accident was inadequate engine maintenance.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power after takeoff, and he subsequently executed a forced landing. Examination of the engine revealed that the power takeoff lower rod bearing had failed due to corrosion, damaging the piston and head. A low usage pattern for the engine combined with a failure to follow the engine manufacturer’s recommended preservation instructions led to significant corrosion in the engine.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Perform engine overhaul and maintenance as per the operations manual.

NTSB coding

  • Loss of engine power (total) · Initial climb
  • Loss of Thrust on Takeoff

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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