N3434S

On October 3, 1997, about 0942 central daylight time, a Cessna 182G, N3434S, registered to a private individual, was substantially damaged during a forced landing shortly after takeoff from the Jackson International Airport, Jackson, Mississippi. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and a VFR flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR part 91 personal flight. The private-rated pilot sustained minor injuries and two passengers were not injured. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.

The pilot stated that he performed an engine run-up before departure with no discrepancies noted. He then initiated a takeoff from the 8,501-foot-long runway and during the initial climb at 100 feet above ground level, a sudden momentary reduction in engine power occurred. He then checked the manifold pressure, engine rpm gauge, mixture, fuel selector, and propeller lever positions for proper positions. Engine power sufficient to maintain level flight was restored and with insufficient runway remaining, he maneuvered the airplane to return for landing. The engine again experienced a partial loss of power and he maneuvered to avoid cars and obstructions then while descending for a forced landing on a road, the airplane collided with the top of a chain link fence then the ground and a sign pole before coming to rest upright.

Examination of the airplane by an FAA airworthiness inspector revealed sufficient fuel to sustain engine operation with no fuel contaminants noted in the wing fuel tanks or in the gascolator. Two of the ignition leads were determined to be inoperative and low compression was noted in two of the cylinders. Additionally, gasket material was found lodged between the throat of the carburetor and the upper portion of the venturi. The gasket material was the exact shape of a section of gasket material that was missing between the carburetor air box and the mount flange of the carburetor.