Pilot Debrief

GRUMMAN ACFT ENG COR-SCHWEIZER G-164B near Edison, GA — 2012-10-19

Final reportERA13LA029
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Date
2012-10-19
Location
Edison, GA, USA
Aircraft
GRUMMAN ACFT ENG COR-SCHWEIZER G-164B
Registration
N6670K
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

The total loss of engine power due to the fatigue failure of the k-pin associated with the No. 1 cylinder.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that he had completed an aerial application run in the airplane and began a left turn to return for another aerial application run. However, shortly after he began the maneuver, the airplane’s engine lost total power. The pilot performed a forced landing to a field, during which the airplane nosed over. Examination of the radial engine revealed that the No. 1 cylinder k-pin had failed, resulting in significant internal engine damage and the loss of power. Further examination of the failed k-pin revealed that it had fractured near its center oil journal, and the k-pin fracture marks exhibited damage consistent with fatigue.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen to land in a safer area before engine power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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