On May 17, 1982, a Grumman G-164 (registration N10280) operated by P.m. Dusters, Inc was involved in an aviation accident near 10 West OF Bigg, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine lost power due to a crack in the No. 4 cylinder, which extended from the front to the rear spark plug hole. The pilot's decision to land in an area with soft ground contributed to the aircraft flipping over upon impact. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced engine vibration and power loss during takeoff. The pilot attempted an emergency landing on the only available area, resulting in a flip-over after the main gear struck soft ground.
What happened
During the initial phase of takeoff, the engine began to vibrate significantly and lost power. Unable to continue the climb or return to the departure airport, the pilot sought the only available area for an emergency landing. Upon touchdown, one of the main landing gear struts dug into a soft spot in the terrain. The force of the impact caused the aircraft to flip over.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the engine revealed that the No. 4 cylinder had developed a crack extending from the front spark plug hole to the rear spark plug hole. Analysis of the fracture surface indicated that approximately four inches of the crack appeared to be old, while the remainder of the crack was new.
Findings
The investigation determined that the engine failure was caused by the cracked cylinder. The presence of both old and new fracture surfaces suggests a progressive failure mechanism that ultimately led to the loss of power during a critical phase of flight.
Probable cause
The engine lost power due to a crack in the No. 4 cylinder, which extended from the front to the rear spark plug hole. The pilot's decision to land in an area with soft ground contributed to the aircraft flipping over upon impact.
What happened in the 17 May 1982 Grumman G-164 accident near 10 West OF Bigg, CA?
An aircraft experienced engine vibration and power loss during takeoff. The pilot attempted an emergency landing on the only available area, resulting in a flip-over after the main gear struck soft ground.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 May 1982 involved a Grumman G-164, registration N10280, operated by P.m. Dusters, Inc, at 10 West OF Bigg, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The engine lost power due to a crack in the No. 4 cylinder, which extended from the front to the rear spark plug hole. The pilot's decision to land in an area with soft ground contributed to the aircraft flipping over upon impact.
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