Primary finding
Probable cause
The loss of compression in the no. 4 cylinder due to a valve stuck in the open position, which resulted in the loss of engine power.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was taking off on runway 36 when the engine lost power at about 400 feet above the ground. The pilot stated that he lowered the nose and made a turn to land on runway 18, but the airplane veered off 150 feet to the right of the runway into a plowed field and nosed over. Examination of the airplane by the FAA revealed the number four exhaust valve failed in the open posiiton, and the number three exhaust valve was leaking due to a worn seat.
Source record
Factual narrative
-