Primary finding
Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to a decoupling of the accessory drive that runs the high pressure engine-driven fuel pump.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot experienced a power surge and subsequent loss of engine power during an aerial application flight. He made a forced landing into a dry river bed. Examination of the engine revealed a decoupling of the accessory drive that runs the high pressure engine-driven fuel pump.
Source record
Factual narrative
On August 9, 1995, at 0500 hours mountain standard time, the pilot of a Mielec WSK-PZL-M-18 aircraft, N6657C, experienced a power surge and subsequent loss of engine power during a 14 CFR Part 137 aerial application flight near Sacaton, Arizona. The pilot made a forced landing in a riverbed. The aircraft was substantially damaged and the pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time. The aircraft departed from a local agricultural strip at 0415 hours. The inspection of the engine by the FAA revealed a decoupling of the accessory drive that runs the high pressure engine-driven fuel pump. The engine had a total time of 6,307 hours and 164 hours since an overhaul. -