On April 4, 1984, a Grumman G-164A (registration N9936) was involved in an aviation accident near Eunice, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A crack in the number seven cylinder head between the spark plug holes, which resulted from an incomplete major overhaul. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft lost power immediately after takeoff during a maintenance test flight, forcing the pilot to land in a pond due to insufficient altitude.
What happened
The pilot reported that the engine experienced a sudden loss of power shortly after initiating takeoff. Due to the low altitude at which the failure occurred, it was not possible to return to the runway. Consequently, the pilot executed an emergency landing on the edge of a nearby pond.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed a significant crack in the cylinder head of the number seven cylinder. The fracture was located specifically between the spark plug holes. This damage was found on an engine that had recently received a major overhaul, indicating a potential issue with the repair station's workmanship.
Findings
The accident occurred during a maintenance test flight. The pilot recommended that repair stations improve their overhaul procedures to prevent similar mechanical failures in the future.
Probable cause
A crack in the number seven cylinder head between the spark plug holes, which resulted from an incomplete major overhaul.
What happened in the 4 Apr 1984 Grumman G-164A accident near Eunice, LA?
A light aircraft lost power immediately after takeoff during a maintenance test flight, forcing the pilot to land in a pond due to insufficient altitude.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Apr 1984 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N9936, at Eunice, LA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A crack in the number seven cylinder head between the spark plug holes, which resulted from an incomplete major overhaul.
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