On May 8, 1987, a Grumman G-164A (registration N4623) operated by Bowles Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Lambertsville, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reported that the engine cut out multiple times after takeoff and then failed completely. An emergency landing was made in a plowed field, during which the aircraft nosed over. The accident was not reported for four days, and the operator partially disassembled the aircraft before the engine was test-run with no preimpact malfunctions found.
Incident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reported that the engine experienced multiple intermittent power losses before failing entirely. The pilot initiated an emergency landing in a plowed field. During the landing roll, the aircraft nosed over.
Post-Accident Actions
The accident was not reported to authorities for four days. During this interval, the aircraft operator partially disassembled the aircraft. The engine was removed and subjected to a test run. No preimpact malfunctions or failures were identified. The engine was found to operate within the normal parameters established by the manufacturer, and no other abnormalities were detected.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the engine after the incident revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure prior to impact. The engine's performance during post-accident testing was consistent with manufacturer specifications.