On September 22, 1987, a Grumman G164B (registration N6607Q) operated by Vittleston, Alan was involved in an aviation accident near Buttonwillow, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Multiple connecting rod failures in the engine during flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced catastrophic engine failure due to multiple rod failures during an aerial application flight, resulting in a forced landing and nose-over damage.
What happened
The incident occurred while the pilot was conducting an aerial application flight. After completing a pass over a field and pulling out of the maneuver, the pilot heard a loud bang followed by severe engine vibration. The aircraft subsequently lost power, prompting the pilot to execute a forced landing in a plowed field. During the landing roll, the aircraft nosed over.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the engine had suffered multiple rod failures, specifically affecting rods numbered 1, 2, 3, and 5.
Probable cause
Multiple connecting rod failures in the engine during flight.