Air Tractor Inc AT-301 N23416 accident near Bowling Green, Missouri

Probable cause

The failure of the engine supercharger's rear bearing, which resulted in the loss of engine power.

NTSB analysis

Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power, and the pilot subsequently performed a forced landing to a field 1/4 mile off the departure end of the runway. During the forced landing, the airplane nosed over in the mud. According to the pilot, before takeoff, the engine was washed down, inspected, and then started and run for 15 minutes at idle power. The engine power was then advanced to 31 inches of manifold pressure. All engine checks were normal, and the engine ran smoothly. A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the rear bearing in the supercharger had failed. Additional damage consistent with the failure of the rear bearing was noted throughout the supercharger and engine. An examination of the airframe, systems, and remaining engine sections revealed no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA239 for the full record.