Incident Overview
The pilot/owner of a helicopter reported that he purchased the aircraft in 2005. The helicopter had been out of annual inspection until May 2010. In June 2009, the helicopter was taken to an aircraft maintenance shop for its maintenance inspection, but according to the pilot/owner, no work was performed due to a disagreement regarding component times. In January 2010, the helicopter was moved to the pilot/owner's own shop, where another mechanic completed the inspection.
Pre-Flight and Maneuver
Approximately one month after the inspection, the pilot/owner planned to conduct a practice and test flight. He reported performing a complete run-up, during which the helicopter operated normally. He then attempted to hover-taxi the helicopter over a storage container to reach a helipad. As the helicopter flew past the container, the engine lost power.
Emergency Landing
Upon losing engine power, the pilot/owner elected to "lay" the helicopter over into a bark pile. No further details on injuries or damage were provided in the source.
Post-Incident Inspection
A visual inspection conducted by responding Federal Aviation Administration inspectors was unable to determine any problems with the helicopter's engine. After the helicopter was recovered, the pilot/owner reported that a "plug" was found covering the fuel tank's vent line. He stated his belief that this plug caused the loss of engine power.