Apr 8, 1997
Accident
Substantial SMITHFIELD, NC
InjuriesNone
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
Installation by a student mechanic of a counterweight retaining washer that did not meet engine manufacturers specifications resulting in partial separation of the counterweight, failure of the No.5 connecting rod adjacent to the counterweight, and seizure of the engine. Contributing to the accident was improper supervision of the student mechanic by aviation school personnel.
NTSB MIA97LA123