Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
THE LOSS OF POWER DUE TO LOST OIL PRESSURE AND A FAILED CONNECTING ROD. FACTORS INCLUDE FENCE POSTS AND DUSK LIGHTING CONDITIONS WHICH LIMITED VISIBILITY.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On February 10, 1995, approximately 1753 mountain standard time, a Beech S-35, N8828M, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing after a loss of engine power while en route to Wolf Point, Montana. The commercial pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, was uninjured. The flight, which was a non-scheduled cargo flight operated under 14CFR135, had departed Glasgow, Montana about ten minutes earlier. There was no fire and no report of an ELT actuating. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the flight.
The pilot noted a loss of oil pressure, but the engine continued to run smoothly. About one to three minutes after the loss of oil pressure, the engine started knocking and the pilot shut it down. An inspection by FAA inspectors noted that the number six connecting rod had failed. The engine had five hours since major overhaul.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# SEA95LA050