Probable cause
The loss of engine power as a result of oil starvation to the number one rod bearing and number one connecting rod. Contributing to the accident was the rough terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the engine started running rough and vibrating. He turned the ignition key to "OFF" and executed a forced landing to a field. The fuselage sustained substantial damage during the forced landing to a rough field. The inspection of the engine revealed that the number one cylinder connecting rod had failed. It exhibited signatures consistent with overheating. The number one cylinder connecting rod bearing was extruded and pieces were found in the oil screen. The bearing exhibited signatures consistent with overheating. About 2 quarts of oil were found in the engine sump with no signs of external oil leakage. The pilot reported that oil level during the preflight was over 4 quarts.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CHI08CA250 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 10, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- North Branch, Minnesota
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper J-3
- N-number
- N42080
- 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.