LAX96LA216

The pilot reported that he performed a preflight inspection of the airplane; no water or foreign material was observed in the fuel, and he started the engine without difficulty. After performing a run-up during which no anomalies were observed, the pilot commenced taking off from the gravel road. The airplane climbed 50 feet above the road, and then a total loss of engine power was experienced. The available roadway was not suitable for the pilot to use in terminating the flight, and the airplane crashed into nearby rough terrain. A witness reported that during the takeoff the airplane's engine sputtered and a plume of black colored exhaust smoke was noted. The airplane was recovered from the accident site and examined by an FAA inspector. The FAA inspector reported that over 40 gallons of fuel was found in the tanks, compression was measured in all cylinders, the spark plugs appeared in new condition but were heavily sooted, and the magnetos rotated and produced spark. In summary, all examined items looked normal or were impact damaged. No evidence of a mechanical malfunction was found.

On May 31, 1996, at 0928 hours Pacific daylight time, a Rockwell International 112TCA, N4674W, registered to D & M Terrazzo & Tile Co., Inc., experienced a total loss of engine power during takeoff from a gravel road, about 35 miles southwest of Eureka, Nevada. The airplane crashed into rough terrain adjacent to the road and was substantially damaged as it slid to a stop while in a yawed attitude. The airline transport certificated pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. No flight plan was filed for the ferry flight which was originating at the time of the accident.

According to the pilot, about 1 week prior to the accident flight, the airplane's owner made a precautionary landing on the road due to inclement weather. During rollout, the airplane collided with a post which resulted in minor skin damage to the right wing. The pilot further indicated that he is an aircraft mechanic, with inspection authorization, and he made temporary repairs to the airplane which were adequate for a ferry flight.

Thereafter, he performed a preflight inspection which included draining the fuel sumps. No water or foreign material was observed. The engine was started without difficulty, and no anomalies were observed during the run-up. The takeoff was commenced in a downhill direction, and full engine power was initially developed. According to the pilot, when the airplane was 50 feet above ground level, the engine lost power.

A witness reported observing the accident flight to the White Pine County Sheriff's Department. According to the witness, during the takeoff the airplane's engine sputtered and a plume of black colored exhaust smoke was noted.

The airplane was recovered from the accident site and examined by an Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector. In summary, the FAA inspector reported that the magnetos were turned and sparked. The spark plugs looked new, but were heavily sooted. The crankshaft rotated and compression was measured in all cylinders. Over 40 gallons of fuel was found in the tanks. The throttle body was observed to have impact damage.