Probable cause
The rupture of a corroded oil line, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to oil starvation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the engine experienced a loss of oil pressure and power during aerial-application flight maneuvers. The airplane impacted a hay bale and roadside ditch during the subsequent forced landing. A postaccident examination revealed that one of the oil lines associated with the oil-cooler had ruptured. The oil line’s reinforcing steel braiding was corroded, and a majority of the individual steel strands were fractured in the immediate area surrounding the rupture. A review of available records indicated that there were no unresolved maintenance items and that there was no history of engine oil leaks since the last engine overhaul. The installation date and total time in-service of the ruptured engine oil line could not be determined from the available maintenance information.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA437 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 12, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mott, North Dakota
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-25-235
- N-number
- N8801L
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
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.