On June 5, 1982, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N6997Z) operated by Walts AG Service was involved in an aviation accident near Kimball, NE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an agricultural operation, the pilot noted a mag drop during preflight, which cleared with leaning. After a longer-than-expected takeoff roll, the engine popped and sputtered during climb. The aircraft nosed over during a soft field landing, soaking the pilot with chemical. No precrash engine malfunction was found.
Preflight and Takeoff
The aircraft was loaded with 100 gallons of 2-4-D herbicide and 40 gallons of fuel. During the preflight run-up check, the pilot observed a magneto drop of 225 RPM. He stated that leaning the fuel mixture resolved the excessive RPM decrease. During the takeoff roll, the engine tachometer indicated 2500 RPM. The pilot reported that the aircraft did not seem to accelerate as expected and required approximately 2700 feet of roll before lift-off.
Post-Takeoff and Landing
After lift-off, the aircraft failed to gain speed as the pilot climbed to about 75 feet above ground level. The engine then popped and sputtered as the plane settled. During a subsequent landing in a soft field, the aircraft nosed over, and the pilot was soaked with the 2-4-D chemical. The pilot noted that he would have dumped his load if he had more time.
Engine Examination and Performance Data
An examination and operational check of the engine revealed no precrash malfunction or failure. Takeoff performance data indicated that the aircraft should have been able to clear a 50-foot obstacle within 1350 feet. The density altitude at the time was approximately 6500 feet MSL.