Incident Overview
While flying at 500 feet above ground level during an aerial application mission, the pilot noticed a slight loss of engine power and observed that fuel flow was below normal. Despite performing emergency procedures, fuel flow did not increase. The pilot initiated a turn, and approximately 10 seconds later, the engine lost all power.
Emergency Response
The pilot discharged the load of seed to extend the glide distance. During the descent, the pilot observed that the paint on the engine cowling began to blister and emit smoke. The pilot executed a forced landing in an open field. After touchdown, the airplane continued to burn.
Wreckage Examination
Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed a leaking fuel hose in the engine compartment. The hose was stamped with a date indicating the first quarter of 1984 (1Q84). According to the airplane service manual, fluid-carrying hoses in the engine compartment should be replaced during engine overhaul or every five years, whichever occurs first. At the time of the accident, the hose had been installed for 6 years and 7 months.