Primary finding
Probable cause
Power loss for undetermined reasons and nose gear separation due to overload. A factor contributing to the accident was: terrain condition - dirt bank.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Approximately 20 minutes after takeoff the aircraft's engine quit. The pilot reported departing with 8 gallons of fuel and 3 gallons was observed in the fuel tank subsequent to the accident. FAA on site examination of the aircraft revealed no apparent cause of the power loss. The pilot executed a forced landing during which time the aircraft struck an embankment and the nose wheel separated.
Source record
Factual narrative
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