Accident Overview
An agricultural airplane was involved in an accident following a partial loss of engine power after takeoff. The aircraft had departed from a runway and climbed to an altitude of approximately 75 feet above ground level before it began to settle toward the ground. The pilot initiated an emergency chemical dump, but the descent continued.
Sequence of Events
During the subsequent forced landing in a wheat field, the left main landing gear failed, causing the airplane to ground loop. The aircraft then slid approximately 60 feet before coming to a stop in an upright position. The forced landing was necessitated by the loss of engine power, which prevented the airplane from maintaining altitude or returning to the runway.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination of the engine revealed that the number 5 cylinder had a compression reading of 34/80. The manufacturer's specifications state that the acceptable compression is 60/80. No other discrepancies were noted with the engine. The low compression in the number 5 cylinder is the only anomaly identified during the inspection.