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Casualties unknown

Nose-over during forced landing after engine failure (N7396)

Jennings, LA, US

On August 6, 1983, a Grumman G-164A (registration N7396) was involved in an aviation accident near Jennings, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure due to the use of automobile gasoline and an inoperative left magneto, leading to a forced landing where the aircraft nosed over after the main gear mired in soft ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft nosed over on a soft field after the engine quit shortly after takeoff due to fuel contamination and mechanical failures.

What happened

The aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, necessitating a forced landing. During the landing attempt, the main landing gear sank into the soft, plowed earth of the field. The force of the impact caused the aircraft to nose over.

The investigation

Post-acc examination of the engine revealed several critical mechanical issues. The left magneto was found to be inoperative, and the spark plugs showed significant wear. Additionally, analysis confirmed that the aircraft had been fueled with automobile gasoline instead of aviation fuel.

Findings

The takeoff gross weight was recorded at 5290 lbs. The combination of using incorrect fuel and engine maintenance issues contributed to the loss of power.

Probable cause

Engine failure due to the use of automobile gasoline and an inoperative left magneto, leading to a forced landing where the aircraft nosed over after the main gear mired in soft ground.
Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Aug 1983 Grumman G-164A accident near Jennings, LA?

An aircraft nosed over on a soft field after the engine quit shortly after takeoff due to fuel contamination and mechanical failures.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Aug 1983 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N7396, at Jennings, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure due to the use of automobile gasoline and an inoperative left magneto, leading to a forced landing where the aircraft nosed over after the main gear mired in soft ground.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44150. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.