Accident Overview
The purpose of the flight was to calibrate the spray equipment. The pilot loaded the hopper with approximately 70 gallons of water and initiated a takeoff.
Accident Sequence
During the initial climb, at about 100 feet above ground level (AGL), the cockpit filled with smoke and the engine failed. The aircraft struck a tree on descent and was substantially damaged.
Post-Accident Examination
Post-accident examination revealed that the magneto wires on both magnetos were grounding and the insulation on the wires was burned.
Inspection History
The aircraft had an annual inspection five flights and two weeks prior to the accident.