Incident Overview
A pilot elected to conduct a high-speed taxi test to assess the aircraft's performance before flying. During the test, the aircraft accelerated to 40 knots, at which point the pilot reduced engine power to idle and applied the brakes. The brakes failed, leaving approximately 1,600 feet of runway remaining, with the final 700 feet on a downgrade. The aircraft continued beyond the departure end of the runway.
Post-Incident Examination
A mechanic who had not previously worked on the aircraft inspected the brake system. The examination found the brake discs worn beyond approved limits, with several areas of the brake pads worn down to the rivet heads. The wheel bearing grease had hardened, and all bearings were dry and pitted. The right side brake cylinder was pitted and leaking, and dirt had accumulated inside the brake master cylinders.
Maintenance History
The last annual inspection of the aircraft had been completed on June 10, 1996, and the aircraft was returned to service by a mechanic holding an FAA Inspection Authorization.