Summary
The pilot reported that the engine stopped in the cruise at about 600 ft. He entered autorotation and landed in low trees and scrub. The engine stopped because the crank shaft drive gear bolt failed due to hydrogen embrittlement. When the bolt failed drive to the accessories was lost. The manufacturer has verbally assured CASA that this was an isolated instance of a bolt failure.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199801249 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 04/04/1998 |
| Location | 8 km south-west of Walkerville |
| State | Victoria |
| Report release date | 24/06/1998 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Forced/precautionary landing |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | R44 |
| Registration | VH-OCT |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Private |
| Departure point | Lilydale Vic. |
| Destination | Hobart Tas. |
| Damage | Substantial |