Primary finding
Probable cause
The total loss of engine power resulting from a cracked cylinder. A factor was the unsuitable terrain for the forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was returning from spraying a field when the engine lost power. He performed a forced landing to an alfalfa field. The airplane's left landing gear impacted a ditch, and the airplane came to a stop in an inverted position. The FAA inspector on the scene reported that a crack was found on the bottom number 5 cylinder.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 31, 1996, at 0800 mountain daylight time, a Grumman G-164A, N25SK, registered to Steggs Flying Service and operated by Seelhoff Aerial Spraying, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Burlington, Colorado. The airline transport rated pilot, the sole occupant of the airplane, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the Title 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight. A flight plan was not filed for the local flight that began approximately one hour before the accident. The pilot reported that he was returning from spraying a field when the engine lost power. The pilot performed a forced landing to an alfalfa field. The airplane's left landing gear impacted a ditch made by a pivotal sprinkler system, and the airplane came to a stop in an inverted position. The top wing, the empennage, and the propeller were all damaged in the impact sequence. The FAA inspector on the scene reported that, when the engine was inspected, a crack was found on the bottom number 5 cylinder. -