Primary finding
Probable cause
The failure of a number three engine cylinder hold down bolt due to fatigue.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
While in cruise flight, the airplane's number two engine failed and caught fire. The pilot put the airplane in a dive and extinguished the fire. The flight diverted to the nearest airport and landed without further incident. Examination of the airplane revealed that the fire had burned through the engine cowling and damaged the right wing spar. Examination of the engine revealed that the number three cylinder had separated from the crankcase and the associated fuel injector line was disconnected from its fitting. Metallurgical examinations of the number three cylinder components revealed that the number three cylinder hold down bolts failed due to fatigue.
Source record
Factual narrative
-