Amateur-built RV 8 N508CM accident near Grimes, California

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because the airplane was not examined.

NTSB analysis

The pilot stated that he landed the airplane at a friend’s private airstrip and taxied back to take off again. During the takeoff roll, the engine lost power and he aborted the takeoff. Later that day, the engine was examined by a mechanic, who was unable to find any anomalies. After the mechanic cleared the airplane for flight, the pilot taxied to the runway, performed two run-up checks, then proceeded to take off. About 50 to 70 ft above ground level, the engine again lost partial power. The pilot performed a forced landing in a corn field, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage.

The airplane wreckage was sold before an examination could be scheduled; therefore, the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR20LA225 for the full record.