Pilot Debrief

JEROME D FISCHER RV-7 near Bartow, GA — 2015-05-05

Final reportERA15LA205
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Date
2015-05-05
Location
Bartow, GA, USA
Aircraft
JEROME D FISCHER RV-7
Registration
N364SJ
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

The pilot's use of the improper fuel grade for the engine, which resulted in detonation, engine damage, and loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, during cruise flight, he observed that the engine would not advance past 2,100 rpm, which was 300 rpm below the airplane's normal cruise power setting. The pilot's attempts to troubleshoot the engine issue were unsuccessful, and he chose to conduct a precautionary landing. Shortly after, the oil temperature increased, and oil covered the windshield. During the precautionary landing on a dirt road, the left wingtip impacted the ground and the airplane cart-wheeled, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings and rudder. After the accident, about 10 gallons of 90-octane automotive gasoline (auto gas) were drained from the airplane. According to a service letter issued by the engine manufacturer, "Use of lower-than-specified octane fuel could cause detonation and mechanical damage to the engine." The service letter did not list 90-octane auto gas as an approved fuel for use in the accident engine. Examination of the engine also revealed significant thermal damage to the No. 1 cylinder, piston, and rings consistent with detonation, which likely resulted from the pilot's use of the improper fuel grade for the engine.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Mechanical failure
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have aborted the flight after engine power issues were noted.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents12

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