Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to failure of the engine oil cooler and subsequent oil starvation to the engine.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that the engine shuddered several times and that the engine oil pressure dropped to zero, followed by a complete loss of engine power. About that time, the windshield and canopy were covered with oil and coolant, which restricted forward visibility. The pilot performed a forced landing at the departure airport. However, due to excessive airspeed on approach, he was unable to stop the airplane before it departed the end of the runway and impacted the airport perimeter fence. A postaccident examination revealed that the engine oil cooler had cracked, which resulted in an engine failure due to a loss of engine oil. The oil cooler was an original World War II era component. The crack did not appear to have initiated at a previously repaired area.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA111 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 8, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Batavia, Ohio
- Nearest airport
- Clermont County (I69)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Curtiss Wright P40M
- N-number
- N5813
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.