Cessna 180A N7784A accident near Salmon, Idaho

Probable cause

A loss of engine power during initial climb for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during the initial climb, everything appeared normal until he reduced the propeller rpm as part of his normal procedure. Shortly after, he noticed a difference in engine performance; he stated that it was as if the engine was not producing thrust. The pilot attempted to troubleshoot the loss of power; however, he was unsuccessful, so he initiated a forced landing to a nearby field. During the landing roll, the airplane struck a fence, and the left main landing gear separated, which resulted in the left wing striking the ground before the airplane came to rest upright.

Examination of the propeller revealed that both propeller blades exhibited indications of functioning in the normal operating range at the time of impact. No preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the propeller were found that would have precluded normal operation. After a serviceable propeller was installed on the engine, the engine was test run at various power settings with no anomalies noted.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14LA335 for the full record.