Accident Overview
On October 30, 2010, at approximately 1300 daylight time, a Globe GC-1B, registration N3249K, was substantially damaged when it collided with terrain after experiencing a loss of engine power during takeoff from Grants-Milan Municipal Airport (GNT) in Grants, New Mexico. The aircraft was registered to and operated by the pilot. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The cross-country flight was originating at the time of the accident and was destined for Ozark Regional Airport (OZA) in Arkansas.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported a strong headwind component. Shortly after takeoff, the engine sputtered and "coughed." He enriched the mixture and regained some power. Describing the climb rate as "lethargic," he pulled the throttle back prior to impact. The airplane crashed approximately half a mile from the runway. The pilot, weighing 200 pounds, had just refueled with 26 gallons. He was carrying a small bag and 10 pounds of logbooks and miscellaneous items. He informed FAA inspectors that he had purchased the airplane two days earlier in Flagstaff, Arizona, and was disappointed in its performance departing Flagstaff, which he described as a "long takeoff." He had previously owned a similar airplane for ten years.
Post-Accident Examination
On December 16, 2011, the airplane and engine were examined at Air Transport in Phoenix, Arizona. Due to impact damage to the engine mounts, propeller, and carburetor, a decision was made not to operate the engine (a Continental O-300-A, serial number 15004-D-6-A-R). A compression check was performed with the following results:
- Cylinder #1: 79/80
- Cylinder #2: 73/80
- Cylinder #3: 68/80
- Cylinder #4: 77/80
- Cylinder #5: 80/80
- Cylinder #6: 78/80
The carburetor bowl was clean with no visible contaminants. The fuel screen in the engine-driven fuel pump was also clean. Hand-turning the crankshaft revealed power and valve train continuity.