Amateur-built RV-6A N1257E accident near Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Probable cause

The loss of engine power due to a fuse failure in the ignition system.

NTSB analysis

While cruising at 2,900 feet above ground level, the pilot advanced the throttle and heard a "pop" from the engine, which then lost total power before the propeller stopped. The pilot's engine restart was unsuccessful, and he attempted to land at the nearest airport. The airplane landed short of the runway in a muddy field. During the landing, the nose landing gear collapsed and the airplane nosed over, resulting in damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder. Examination of the airframe and engine revealed that a 7.5 amp ignition fuse, located in the empennage of the airplane, had failed during the flight, which resulted in the loss of ignition and the inability to restart the engine.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10LA253 for the full record.