Pilot Debrief

GUARINO Vans near Marysville, CA — 2017-02-24

Final reportWPR17LA067
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Date
2017-02-24
Location
Marysville, CA, USA
Airport
AUN
Aircraft
GUARINO Vans
Registration
N470LM
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined due to the fragmentation of the electrical system.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that while en route on the personal cross-country flight, the engine experienced a loss of thrust, and the airspeed slowed. The propeller was windmilling, but the throttle had no effect on the engine. The pilot noted that the propeller circuit breaker had popped out but did not note any other indications of an anomaly in the cockpit. In addition, with the engine operating at partial power, the pilot was unable to maintain level flight so he configured the airplane for the best glide speed. He attempted to regain engine power twice and switched fuel tanks, to no avail. The pilot made a forced landing in a soft field, which resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. A postaccident examination noted no evidence of engine mechanical anomalies or thermal distress. There were several wires and a wiring harness disconnected in between the cockpit and the firewall; it is unknown if this happened after impact. During an attempted engine test, a fuel source was rigged to the left fuel tank; the starter solenoid was heard activating, but the engine would not start. An external power source was used in an attempt to start the engine; the engine cranked but would not start. Fuel continuity and pressure in the system was confirmed. The fragmentation of the wreckage, specifically the electrical system, precluded a definitive determination of the cause of the engine failure.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen to land earlier when engine issues first occurred.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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