Dec 21, 1996
Accident
Substantial LEXINGTON, KY
Injuries1 minor
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsVMC
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
failure of #5 exhaust valve and/or #5 exhaust valve guide, which resulted in a progressive engine failure (debris puncturing the #5 piston crown, exhaust gasses entering the crankcase, loss of oil through the breather system, oil exhaustion, and subsequent damage to the engine bearings and connecting rods). Darkness and obstructions (vehicles) in the emergency landing area were related factors.
NTSB NYC97LA035