On July 2, 2004, a Grumman G-164A (registration N915X) was involved in an aviation accident near Chatsworth, NJ. 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.
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.