On August 24, 1990, a Grumman 164-A (registration N9650) was involved in an aviation accident near Dundee, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of a fuel line fitting to the carburetor due to an improper weld. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft suffered an engine failure during a turn, forcing a field landing that resulted in a ground loop. Investigation revealed the cause was a failed fuel line fitting.
What happened
The pilot reported that the engine failed while executing an 'ag turn' (a maneuver often used in agricultural operations). He attempted to land in a bean field. During the landing, one wing struck the ground and the airplane ground looped.
The investigation
Examination of the engine revealed that a fuel line fitting to the carburetor had failed due to an improper weld.
Findings
The failure of the fuel line fitting prevented proper fuel delivery, leading to engine failure. The improper weld was the root cause of the mechanical failure.
Probable cause
The failure of a fuel line fitting to the carburetor due to an improper weld.