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Washington and Jefferson National Forests Engine Wheel Stud Failure 2026

  • Incident Information:

    Attachment Size
    Washington Jefferson NFs Engine Wheel Stud Failure RLS.pdf (395.4 KB) 395.4 KB

  • Location:

    Virginia

  • Date:

    04/14/2026

  • Incident Type:

    Engine Incident

  • Description:

    While in support of prescribed fire and fuels management activities on the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests (GWJ) in Virginia, a U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) Type-6 engine experienced a wheel stud failure. Due to the crew’s situational awareness, the issue was detected before it could lead to a catastrophic outcome.

    Wheel stud failures are a recurring issue reported to the Lessons Learned Center numerous times since 2016. For a summary of similar incidents and related actionable lessons, visit: Data Points - Recurring Lesson: Torque to specifications, mark lug nut and stud. Inspect daily.
     

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