Probable cause
The coil-distributor wire loosening in flight, which rendered the ignition system inoperative and subsequently caused the loss of engine power.
NTSB analysis
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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13LA220 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 4, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Spearfish, South Dakota
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RV-6A
- N-number
- N525PW
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.