Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that the engine lost power and continued to idle while the airplane was at 400 feet above ground level (AGL) in a right turn. The pilot executed a landing on the takeoff runway in the reverse direction. During the landing roll, the airplane overran the runway, struck an irrigation pipe, and nosed over.
Previous Incident
In August 1989, the same airplane experienced a loss of engine power in a separate incident. No injuries or damage resulted from that event. The airplane had been flown for approximately one hour since that incident. It was reported that the airplane had been washed before both the August 1989 incident and the current accident.
Engine Examination
Following the current accident, the engine was examined. No evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction was found. The engine was started and ran for 30 minutes after the accident, further indicating no mechanical issues.
Environmental Conditions
At the time of the accident, an 18-knot tailwind was reported. The pilot did not specify any other weather factors.