What happened
While performing agricultural application over farm fields, the pilot of a Cessna (type not specified) was executing a climbing turn approximately 15 and 0 feet above ground level. During this maneuver, the pilot felt the aircraft shake, indicating an approaching stall. Upon advancing the throttle, the engine failed to produce normal sound or sufficient power to maintain altitude.
As the aircraft passed over an orchard, the pilot attempted to direct the plane toward a working field. While attempting to manage the stall buffet, the aircraft ceased flying, spun to the right in an inverted position, and impacted the ground 50 feet below. The pilot successfully exited the aircraft, but the impact resulted in a post-impact fire.
The investigation
An FAA inspector conducted a post-accident examination of the Continental IO-520-D engine at the operator's facility. The engine had been folded under the wreckage against the ground, which shielded it from the fire. However, extensive heat damage was observed around cylinder number 5, including local melting of the aluminum near the intake manifold and rocker cover.
Investigators found that the fuel injector line for cylinder number 5 had become detached from the nozzle. The b-nut on this fuel line was found to be only finger tight. Maintenance records indicated that the engine oil cooler had been replaced approximately 36 flight hours before the accident. The inspector noted that mechanics often move or adjust the number 5 cylinder fuel injector line during oil cooler service.