Probable cause
The failure of an engine connecting rod and the subsequent loss of oil pressure, which resulted in a total loss of engine power.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was returning to the airport when the engine experienced a total loss of power. As the pilot maneuvered to perform a forced landing, the engine seized and the propeller stopped. The airplane landed hard, bounced, and nosed over, coming to rest inverted. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and rudder. An examination of the engine revealed that a connecting rod failed and broke through the crankcase, which resulted in a loss of oil and the subsequent loss of engine power. The reason for the failure of the connecting rod could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA111 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 19, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Graham, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Graham Municipal (KRPH)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper L-18C
- N-number
- N3134G
- 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.