AAIB investigation to Replica Percival Mew Gull, G-HEKL
Engine failure, 1 mile north-west of Great Massingham Airfield, Norfolk, 18 April 2025
After approximately 30 minutes of flying as part of running-in the engine following a recent rebuild, the engine began to run roughly, and the No 3 cylinder head temperature began to decrease. A short time later the engine suffered an uncontained failure of the No 3 cylinder connecting rod and piston. The pilot was able to conduct a forced landing. The cause of the engine failure was determined to be oil starvation which led to the failure of two main bearings and the No 3 cylinder connecting rod end cap. Debris from the uncontained failure also damaged the magneto and caused the distributor gear drive shaft to shear. The exact cause of the starvation could not be fully determined.
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