Engine Failure During Post-Overhaul Test Flight Leads to Forced Landing and Damage (N16438)

Accident Sequence

The airplane had recently undergone an engine overhaul and was on its initial flight test. The pilot reported that the airplane was performing normally until the engine speed increased to the red line. The pilot adjusted the propeller control to compensate for the high rpm, but the engine then stopped. The pilot assumed control from the pilot-flying and proceeded to shut off the fuel. He selected a field for a forced landing and stabilized the airplane at best glide airspeed. Subsequently, the landing gear deployed automatically. The pilot then chose a secondary landing site located on the back side of a hill. During the landing, the airplane bounced several times while rapidly descending down the hill. The airplane came to rest with the nose gear and left main gear collapsed. Additionally, the left wing spar and firewall were bent.

Postaccident Examination

A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that one oil pressure fitting in the engine accessory drive case had not been capped.