Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to a fractured push rod precipitated by a stuck exhaust valve.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that about 5 miles from the destination the engine started to run rough, and about 20 seconds later the engine lost power. His attempts to restore engine power were unsuccessful. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing to a field. During the landing roll the airplane nosed over on the soft field. A postaccident examination revealed that the No.3 cylinder exhaust valve push rod had buckled and fractured near mid-length. The push rod fracture surfaces showed failure signatures consistent with overload precipitated by a stuck valve. No other engine anomalies were observed.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA413 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 18, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Bedford Park, Illinois
- Nearest airport
- Midway International (MDW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172N
- N-number
- N172NT
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.