Amateur-built RV-8A N958RV accident near Salem, Oregon

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for undetermined reasons, because postaccident examination of the engine and fuel system did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB analysis

The purpose of the flight was to break in the engine and to evaluate the systems and flight characteristics of the newly-constructed, experimental amateur-built airplane. During the flight, the private pilot observed an elevated cylinder head temperature, which he controlled with airspeed, altitude, fuel mixture and engine power settings. The pilot returned to the airport, and, in the traffic pattern, the engine began to run rough, followed by a total loss of power. The pilot subsequently landed in an open field about 150 feet short of the runway threshold. A postaccident examination of the fuel system and a test run of the engine revealed no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the reported loss of engine power was not determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR16LA049 for the full record.