Incident Overview
While returning to a private airstrip after dispensing a chemical load, the pilot reduced engine power to slow the airplane in order to apply the dispersal pump brake. When power was reapplied, the engine made popping and sputtering noises. The pilot initiated a forced landing to a clearing in a field, but the airplane impacted trees approximately 30 feet prior to the clearing.
Post-Impact Examination
Following the accident, the fuel tanks were found compromised with fuel draining from them. An FAA inspector examined the engine and noted that the propeller rotated. The inspector found that the spark plug leads were broken, two cylinder heads were separated, and an exhaust valve was separated. It was not determined if the separation of the cylinder heads occurred prior to or during the impact sequence.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The flight was a private agricultural operation, with the pilot returning to the private airstrip after completing a chemical application. The specific aircraft type, registration, and pilot information were not provided in the source.