What happened
While performing aerial application maneuvers to return to a field, the pilot of the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power. During the maneuver, the pilot observed three sets of power lines directly ahead of the aircraft's position and increased pitch to avoid an impact with the lines. As the aircraft crossed over the third set of power lines, it entered a stall. The aircraft subsequently impacted the terrain in a left wing and nose low attitude.
The investigation
An examination of the engine was conducted following the accident. Investigators discovered that the crankshaft had fractured at the cheek for the number two cylinder. A metallurgical examination of the crankshaft showed that the fracture originated from at least two distinct points in the fillet between the number 3 cheek and the number 2 main journal. The examination also identified beach marks throughout the fracture area, and the edge of the fractured surface appeared smeared.