N73102

Substantial
None

AIR TRACTOR INC AT-301S/N: 301-0656

Accident Details

Date
Monday, August 17, 2009
NTSB Number
CEN09CA535
Location
Leland, IL
Event ID
20090821X04329
Coordinates
41.665832, -88.771385
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

A total loss of engine power in flight due to a loss of engine oil as a result of the separation of the propeller hub components for undetermined reasons.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N73102
Make
AIR TRACTOR INC
Serial Number
301-0656
Year Built
1986
Model / ICAO
AT-301

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
HENDRICKSON FLYING SERVICE INC
Address
21532 QUITNO RD
Status
Deregistered
City
ROCHELLE
State / Zip Code
IL 61068-9413
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that he was spraying a field when “oil started hitting [his] windshield” and the engine lost oil pressure. Shortly thereafter, the engine “clattered and then quit.” He executed a forced landing into a corn field. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot noted that there was no indication of a problem prior to the loss of engine oil. A post accident inspection revealed oil spray residue on the engine cowling and windshield. Examination determined that the spring puller bolt assembly and the piston gasket nut had separated from the propeller hub. The components were not recovered precluding further examination. As a result, the exact nature of the failure could not be determined.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN09CA535