Event Description
During the takeoff roll, the pilot rotated the airplane at 60 knots. The pilot reported that the airplane felt "slow to lift" and subsequently aborted the takeoff. The pilot reduced engine power to idle and applied the brakes. Despite these actions, the airplane continued beyond the end of the runway, collided with a fence, and came to rest nosed over in a ditch.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the Lycoming engine was conducted. It revealed low compression in the number 3 cylinder, attributed to a fractured cylinder ring.
Maintenance History
The last 100-hour inspection was performed approximately three weeks before the accident. The airplane had flown only one hour since that inspection. Records from the inspection showed that a compression check of the number 3 cylinder resulted in a reading of 55/80 psi. According to 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix D, a compression check of cylinders is required, and weak compression should prompt an inspection for improper internal condition and tolerances. Lycoming Service Instruction No. 1191A stated that pressure readings for all cylinders should be nearly equal, with a difference of 10 to 15 psi warranting investigation, and readings below 60 psi indicating consideration of cylinder removal and overhaul.