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Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing and Nose-Over in Cranberry Bog (N915X)

Chatsworth, NJ, US

On July 2, 2004, a Grumman G-164A (registration N915X) was involved in an aviation accident near Chatsworth, NJ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A blocked internal oil passage, which resulted in inadequate lubrication of the blower impeller shaft, and the subsequent partial loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Following takeoff, an airplane experienced engine power loss at 100 feet. The pilot dumped the fertilizer load and performed a forced landing in a cranberry bog, resulting in a nose-over. Post-accident inspection found a bent impeller shaft and a blocked oil passage.

Accident Sequence

Shortly after liftoff, when the airplane had reached an altitude of approximately 100 feet above ground level, the engine began to lose power. The pilot initiated a dump of the fertilizer cargo being carried and subsequently executed a forced landing into a cranberry bog. Upon touchdown, the airplane nosed over.

Post-Accident Inspection

Following the accident, an examination of the engine revealed that the impeller shaft of the blower section was bent. The shaft surface showed discoloration consistent with heat exposure and exhibited signs of rotational scoring. Additionally, a 1/16-inch oil passage responsible for lubricating the impeller shaft bearings was found to be blocked.

Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Jul 2004 Grumman G-164A accident near Chatsworth, NJ?

Following takeoff, an airplane experienced engine power loss at 100 feet. The pilot dumped the fertilizer load and performed a forced landing in a cranberry bog, resulting in a nose-over. Post-accident inspection found a bent impeller shaft and a blocked oil passage.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Jul 2004 Grumman G-164A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Jul 2004 involved a Grumman G-164A, registration N915X, at Chatsworth, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A blocked internal oil passage, which resulted in inadequate lubrication of the blower impeller shaft, and the subsequent partial loss of engine power.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040726X01062. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.