Incident
During an agricultural spraying operation, the pilot was working a field bordered by obstacles. While approximately halfway through a procedure turn, the engine began backfiring and losing power. The pilot advanced the throttle to about half power in an attempt to rectify the condition, but it did not improve.
Emergency Landing
The field had a high power line on one side, a 300-foot transmitting tower on the other, and a wooded area at the end. Given these constraints, the pilot chose to perform an emergency landing in a small, rolling field. During the landing, the landing gear collapsed and the wings sustained damage.
Engine Examination
Subsequent examination of the engine revealed several issues. The front spark plugs were found to be sooty, while the rear spark plugs were rusted and could not be removed. Cylinders number 2, 4, and 8 had blown exhaust gaskets. Additionally, the left magneto timing bushing was excessively worn, and the magneto was found to be loose.