On March 4, 1995, a Schweizer G-164A (registration N5450) was involved in an aviation accident near Robbins, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control due to soft and wet terrain following an engine failure caused by a failed master rod. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced an in-flight engine failure and executed a forced landing on soft, wet terrain, resulting in the aircraft nosing over upon touchdown.
What happened
The pilot reported that the engine quit during flight. With no other options available, he selected the only accessible field for an emergency landing. The terrain was characterized by soft and wet conditions, which likely impacted the effectiveness of braking and directional control. During the ground roll after touchdown, the aircraft nosed over.
The investigation
A subsequent examination of the engine revealed significant mechanical damage. Inspectors found a hole in the engine case located near the number 5 cylinder skirt. Further disassembly of the engine disclosed that the master rod had failed, which is consistent with the catastrophic nature of the event and the resulting structural damage.
Findings
The failure of the master rod was the primary mechanical issue leading to the loss of power. The soft and wet conditions of the landing site contributed to the nosing over incident during the ground roll.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain control due to soft and wet terrain following an engine failure caused by a failed master rod.