Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that he and another individual completed Teledyne Continental Motors Service Information Directive (SID) 97-3, which involved adjustment of the fuel flow injection system. Following the maintenance, an engine run-up was performed with no anomalies noted. The pilot then taxied the airplane for a test flight.
Shortly after departure, while climbing through 300 feet above ground level (agl), the engine lost total power. The pilot stated that he turned the fuel selector to the OFF position and executed a forced landing adjacent to the airport. During the forced landing, the airplane contacted trees and the ground before coming to rest upright.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that the airplane departed from runway 17L and was climbing through 300 feet when the engine "failed." They observed the airplane making a "steep" 180-degree turn to the right back toward the airport. During the turn, the right wing dropped, and the airplane entered a nose-low attitude before impacting the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
An engine test run and examination were conducted, and no findings were observed that would preclude operation of the engine. Additionally, the fuel metering unit, fuel manifold, and fuel pump were examined and flow tested, and no anomalies were noted.