Accident Overview
Approximately 45 minutes before the accident, the pilot washed the aircraft's engine with water and engine cleaner. The pilot intended to dry the engine by flying once around the local traffic pattern. During the subsequent taxi, the brakes became progressively non-functional, and the aircraft began a slow turn to the left, aided by a strong tailwind. Despite applying very strong pedal pressure, braking was ineffective. The pilot had set power to idle, but the left turn continued, ending in a collision with a parked and unoccupied Cessna airplane at a speed of about 4 miles per hour.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that the brakes became wet during taxi. He stated that as taxi progressed, the brakes became progressively non-functional and the aircraft began a slow turn to the left, aided by a strong tailwind. Attempts to stop the aircraft and maintain directional control by braking were ineffective in spite of very strong pedal pressure. The pilot confirmed that power was at idle when the continuing turn resulted in the low-speed collision with the parked Cessna.
Damage and Aftermath
No details are provided regarding the extent of damage to either aircraft or any injuries. The accident report is based solely on the pilot's statements.