Primary finding
Probable cause
The partial loss of engine power when an exhaust valve seized in the open position and the water where the pilot was forced to land, which resulted in an acft nose over on touchdown.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot increased power to initiate a climb and the engine partially lost power. He ditched the acft in puget sound when he was unable to reach an airport or the shore for an emergency landing. The acft nosed over on touchdown in the water. An exam of the engine after the accident revealed the no 4 exhaust valve was seized in the open position.
Source record
Factual narrative
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