Accident Summary
An agricultural pilot was spraying a field near a local airport at an altitude of 100 feet above ground level. During an aerial application maneuver, the engine emitted a loud bang and ceased operating. The pilot leveled the aircraft, identified a suitable landing site, and executed a landing.
During the landing roll-out, the aircraft crossed an irrigation ditch and collided with a fence. The left landing gear was separated by a fence post, causing the aircraft to skid, with the right wing making first contact before coming to a stop.
Post-Crash Inspection
A subsequent examination of the engine revealed a failure of the crankshaft. The inspection did not specify any other anomalies.
Service Bulletin
A service bulletin issued in February 1987 had warned of some previous crankshaft failures in this engine model. The bulletin provided information regarding the potential for such failures but did not mandate any specific action.