Accident Details
On March 28, 2008, at approximately 1315 eastern daylight time, an amateur-built Vans RV8, registered as N130X, was substantially damaged during a forced landing shortly after takeoff from DeLand Municipal Airport-Sidney H. Taylor Field (DED) in DeLand, Florida. The flight, conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight to Spruce Creek Airport in Port Orange, Florida, was originating at the time of the accident. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The commercial-rated pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that during the initial climb at 300 feet, with the fuel selector positioned on the left tank, the engine ceased operation. He initiated a right bank and descended toward a clearing for a forced landing, during which the aircraft struck a single power line. The airplane then impacted the ground, rolled approximately 300 feet, and crossed a ditch before coming to rest.
Examination Findings
Post-recovery examination by an FAA Aviation Safety Inspector revealed damage to the fuselage, both wings, and vertical stabilizer. Fuel measurements showed approximately 12.5 gallons of 100 low-lead fuel in the left tank and 6 gallons in the right tank. No fuel contamination was detected, and no obstructions were found in the fuel supply or vent lines for the left tank. Inspection of the engine and its accessories, including the magnetos, showed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. The fuel servo and fuel manifold valve were retained for further examination.
Further Examination
The fuel servo and fuel manifold valve were examined at an FAA-approved repair station under FAA oversight. The fuel servo's throttle plate was found completely closed, with no specified .006-inch gap, and the inlet screen was clean. Bench testing of both components indicated they operated within normal limits. Investigators made no determination regarding the cause of the reported loss of engine power.