Incident Overview
During a dual instructional flight, the pilots noticed smoke originating from an area behind the instrument panel. The flight instructor (CFI) took control of the aircraft, and the crew performed the emergency procedure for an in-flight fire. The smoke subsequently cleared, and the CFI returned control to the owner/pilot.
Emergency Response
As the aircraft approached the airport with the landing gear and flaps extended, the pilot attempted to add power to reach the runway. However, the engine did not respond, necessitating a forced landing on unprepared terrain short of the airport. The aircraft sustained damage during the landing.
Forced Landing and Damage
The forced landing was conducted off-airport on unprepared terrain, resulting in damage to the aircraft. No further information about the extent of damage or occupant injuries was provided.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination revealed three loose fuel injector lines for the left side cylinders. Fuel dye and fire damage were evident on the left side, where ignition wires were burnt and the cowling was distorted. All fuel injectors had been removed for cleaning and reinstallation with new seals prior to the accident flight. The aircraft had flown 2.5 hours since the last annual inspection. After the annual inspection, the aircraft was taken to another shop to repair an engine baffle on the left side, and the aircraft had flown 1.8 hours since that repair.
No official probable cause was stated in the source.