Accident Overview
A general aviation airplane, which had been undergoing a complete rebuild for three years, experienced an engine failure during its first post-rebuild flight. The pilot-in-command had topped off the fuel tanks, performed a runup, and then sat at the end of the runway while attempting to fix the communication radio. Afterward, he taxied onto the runway and commenced the takeoff.
Engine Failure
Upon reaching approximately 150 feet above ground level, the pilot reduced engine power by 200 RPM. Immediately thereafter, the engine stopped producing power. The pilot attempted to land on a road that lay straight ahead, but the airplane landed short and came to rest in a ditch.
Post-Accident Examination
A subsequent examination and engine run conducted after the accident revealed no mechanical irregularities with the engine or the airplane's fuel system.
Findings
The investigation did not identify a specific mechanical cause for the engine failure. The pilot's action of reducing power at low altitude after takeoff preceded the sudden loss of engine power, but the source provides no further analysis.