Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to a connecting rod failure.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while in cruise flight at an altitude of 1,300 feet, the engine started to lose power and "created a rattling sound". The pilot tried to return to his departure airfield but was unable; and elected to perform a forced landing on a dirt road. During the landing the aircraft's nose gear collapsed and the aircraft came to stop against a fence post. An inspection of the engine by the aircraft owner revealed that one of the connecting rods had failed.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for DFW08CA184 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 12, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lake Jackson, Texas
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built Avid Flyer MK IV
- N-number
- N583AF
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.