On May 17, 1983, a Piper PA25 (registration N4521Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Tomah, WI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft performing an aerial application mission lost power shortly after takeoff, leading to a forced landing during which the landing gear collapsed. Inspection revealed spark plug deposits that weakened the ignition.
Accident Description
An aircraft conducting an aerial application mission experienced a loss of power immediately after takeoff. The pilot reported that the accident occurred on the fifth flight of the day. After taking off from runway 27 and climbing to approximately 125 feet above ground level (AGL), the engine began to lose power. The pilot reduced power and executed a forced landing straight ahead, touching down about 50 yards beyond the departure end of the runway. During the landing, the landing gear collapsed.
Engine Examination
Subsequent examination of the engine revealed that the lower spark plugs contained a dark grey deposit that bridged the electrodes. This deposit reduced the strength of the spark produced by the plugs. When the deposit was cleared, the plugs produced a stronger spark.
Outcome
The aircraft sustained damage during the forced landing due to the collapse of the landing gear. No further details were provided regarding the extent of damage or the condition of the pilot.