Incident Summary
An aircraft on a trans-Pacific ferry flight from the continental United States to Indonesia encountered an engine problem after a stop in Hilo, Hawaii. The pilot departed Hilo for an inter-island crossing to Honolulu. During the flight, the pilot noticed that cylinder head temperatures were excessively high and felt a vibration in the airframe. As a result, the pilot diverted to Lani and landed.
Ground Inspection and Subsequent Departure
After landing at Lani, the pilot inspected the engine compartment and performed a ground run-up. No discrepancies were found. The pilot then took off again to continue the flight to Honolulu.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
Shortly after takeoff, at about 200 feet above ground level, the engine quit completely. The pilot maneuvered the aircraft to a grassy area near the departure end of the runway. During the forced landing, the aircraft collided with a berm that was hidden in the tall grass.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the aircraft. After replacing the propeller, the engine was started and operated for approximately five minutes. All engine pressures and temperatures were within normal limits. A subsequent post-run inspection of the engine revealed no discrepancies. The aircraft was fitted with a 196-gallon ferry fuel tank system installed in the cabin.