On November 11, 1998, a Grumman-schweizer G164B (registration N6656Q) operated by Thrash Viation Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Cuthbert, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The fatigue failure of the accessory gear shaft which resulted in fuel starvation and the loss of engine power. A factors was the fuel system filter restriction. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While positioning for agricultural operations, the aircraft experienced engine power loss, leading to an emergency landing in a field. It struck tree stumps and nosed over. Examination revealed a fatigue fracture in the fuel control gearshaft and clogged fuel filters.
Incident Overview
During positioning for agricultural operations, the pilot reported a loss of engine power. The pilot executed an off-airport emergency landing in a field.
Emergency Landing
The aircraft collided with tree stumps during the landing and subsequently nosed over.
Engine and Fuel System Examination
Post-incident examination of the engine revealed a fatigue fracture in the fuel control gearshaft. Additionally, both the fuselage and engine fuel filters were found to be clogged.
Certification Issues
It was discovered that no Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) had been obtained for the installation of the engine into this airplane.