Amateur-built RV 8 N214FF accident near Somerset, Wisconsin

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to damaged and disconnected electronic ignition wires from both the main and backup batteries, which resulted in a forced landing.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, while in cruise flight in the experimental, amateur-built airplane, the radio and GPS lights flickered, followed by a total loss of engine power. He attempted to troubleshoot the loss of power and then conducted a forced landing to a field, during which the airplane impacted a fence; the wings were substantially damaged.

Examination revealed that the wire connection from the main battery to the engine's electronic ignition had melted just above the terminal attachment. Although the airplane was equipped with a backup battery, the connection from the backup battery to the ignition was disconnected, which pre and the wire connection from the electronic ignition to the backup battery was not connected to the battery terminal. While the melted wire that connected the main battery to the electronic ignition would still have allowed power to the electronic ignition from the backup battery, the lack of connection to the backup battery provided no power to the electronic ignition and resulted in the total loss of engine power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN18LA200 for the full record.