Probable cause
The total loss of engine power due to the fatigue failure of the crankshaft.
NTSB analysis
Shortly after takeoff for a personal flight, about 1,200 ft mean sea level, the pilot observed spraying oil and light oil smoke and detected the smell of oil coupled with an engine vibration. The pilot decided to make a forced landing. The engine vibration increased, and the engine seized before landing. The forced landing resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.
Examination of the radial engine revealed a crankshaft failure due to fatigue; beach marks (also known as arrest marks) were observed in the region of the fracture surface. The maintenance records indicated that the last engine overhaul was accomplished about 15 years before the accident. Engine time since major overhaul recorded at the last annual inspection about 9 months before the accident was 143 hours.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR19LA125 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 28, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Sequim, Washington
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Stearman A75N1(PT17)
- N-number
- N68825
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1942
- 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.