Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 150G near Simmesport, LA — 2016-03-02

Final reportCEN16LA118
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Date
2016-03-02
Location
Simmesport, LA, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 150G
Registration
N3339J
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

The installation of an improper bearing and thrust washer during engine overhaul, which resulted in failure of the connecting rods and a subsequent total loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

During the cross-country flight, the engine experienced a total loss of power and the student pilot performed a forced landing to a field. The airplane nosed over during the landing and came to rest inverted. An examination of the engine revealed that the incorrect bearing and thrust washer had been used during the engine reassembly about 90 flight hours before the accident, resulting in the seizure and failure of the #1 and #2 connecting rods and the subsequent loss of engine power. The mechanic who performed the overhaul and reassembly used an outdated parts manual and installed the improper bearing and thrust washer assembly.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Using the correct one-piece bearing assembly during engine reassembly.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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