Accident Overview
A pilot reported losing engine power after departing from New Orleans International Airport. The flight was unable to return to the airport and subsequently crashed into the waters of Lake Pontchartrain, approximately 1 mile from the airport. The wreckage was located and marked with a buoy.
Recovery Efforts
Due to high winds and rough water conditions, the aircraft wreckage could not be moved for several days. When recovery was later attempted, the marker buoy had disappeared. After approximately 3 to 4 weeks, the wreckage was relocated and recovered.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the recovered aircraft revealed that the screw holding the cam which activates the ignition points had separated. This allowed the cam to rotate, eliminating the activation of the points. The magneto was subsequently cleaned, the cam screw reinstalled, and the points adjusted to the correct opening.
Post-Recovery Testing
The magneto was installed on the engine and started using an auxiliary fuel supply and battery power. The engine operated at approximately 2500 RPM with an oil pressure of 85 PSI. The propeller was operated from low to high pitch during testing.
Maintenance History
The magneto points had been replaced 42 hours prior to the accident.