Pilot Debrief

Walker Phil RV-6A near Spearfish, SD — 2013-04-04

Final reportCEN13LA220
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Date
2013-04-04
Location
Spearfish, SD, USA
Aircraft
Walker Phil RV-6A
Registration
N525PW
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

The coil-distributor wire loosening in flight, which rendered the ignition system inoperative and subsequently caused the loss of engine power.

NTSB narrative

While climbing through 6,000 feet, the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot stated that, although he subsequently switched on the auxiliary fuel pump and ignition system, the engine did not restart; therefore, he executed a forced landing to a nearby pasture. The nose landing gear collapsed during the landing, and the airplane came to rest inverted. Examination of the automotive engine, which had been adapted for aviation use, found that the coil-distributor wire had loosened and was not connected to the coil. It is likely that the wire came loose during flight, which rendered the automotive ignition system inoperative and caused the engine to lose power.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have checked engine systems before flight to prevent power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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