On May 7, 1994, a Grumman G-164A (registration N9682) was involved in an aviation accident near EL Campo, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO ONE MAGNETO BEING WEAK AND THE OTHER MAGNETO ARCING INSIDE ITS CASE. A FACTOR WAS THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial takeoff climb, an airplane experienced a loss of engine power. During emergency descent, it struck power lines and descended out of control, coming to rest inverted and destroyed by post-impact fire. Engine examination found no mechanical failures, but magneto issues were identified.
Incident Overview
During the initial climb after takeoff, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot initiated an emergency descent, during which the aircraft struck power lines. Subsequently, the airplane descended out of control and came to rest in an inverted position. A post-impact fire ensued, destroying the aircraft.
Engine Examination
An examination of the engine revealed no mechanical failures that could have caused the loss of power. However, testing of the magnetos disclosed that one was weak and the other was arcing inside its case.
Conclusion
No probable cause was determined from the provided information.