On June 20, 1994, a Grumman G-164B (registration N112JM) was involved in an aviation accident near Brinkley, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The supercharger impeller bearing failed, allowing the impeller to be destroyed and resulting in a complete loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During initial climb, smoke and power hesitation led to total engine loss. The pilot dumped load, attempted return, but forced landing in rice field resulted in inverted aircraft. Examination revealed failed supercharger impeller bearing.
Event Description
During the takeoff initial climb, smoke emanated from the engine and a power hesitation occurred. The pilot dumped the load and turned the airplane toward the airport. As more smoke came from the engine, a total loss of power occurred. During the forced landing, the airplane crossed a tree line and landed in a rice field. During the landing roll, the main gear hit a levee and the airplane came to rest inverted.
Examination Findings
Examination of the engine and accessories revealed that the supercharger impeller part number 12788 was damaged, with blades that had contacted the housing. The impeller bearing part number 288943 had failed and allowed the impeller to be destroyed, resulting in a complete loss of engine power.
Probable cause
The supercharger impeller bearing failed, allowing the impeller to be destroyed and resulting in a complete loss of engine power.
What happened in the 20 Jun 1994 Grumman G-164B accident near Brinkley, AR?
During initial climb, smoke and power hesitation led to total engine loss. The pilot dumped load, attempted return, but forced landing in rice field resulted in inverted aircraft. Examination revealed failed supercharger impeller bearing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Jun 1994 involved a Grumman G-164B, registration N112JM, at Brinkley, AR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The supercharger impeller bearing failed, allowing the impeller to be destroyed and resulting in a complete loss of engine power.
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