Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to significant engine corrosion. Contributing to the accident was inadequate engine maintenance.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power after takeoff, and he subsequently executed a forced landing. Examination of the engine revealed that the power takeoff lower rod bearing had failed due to corrosion, damaging the piston and head. A low usage pattern for the engine combined with a failure to follow the engine manufacturer’s recommended preservation instructions led to significant corrosion in the engine.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13IA008 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 7, 2012
- Type
- Incident
- Place
- Sandwich, Illinois
- Nearest airport
- Woodlake Landing/Sandwich (IS65)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built CHALLENGER II CW SPC
- N-number
- N530MW
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Minor
- 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.