Incident Summary
During a flight, at an altitude of 8,000 feet, the pilot experienced a total loss of electrical power to all instruments, including radios. The airport was in sight, so the pilot did not declare an emergency but set the transponder to code 7600. The pilot moved the landing gear handle to the down position but did not recall acknowledging the gear position indicator, hearing the gear motor, or using the manual hand crank for the landing gear. The flaps could not be lowered.
Pilot Report
On final approach, the pilot reduced the throttle, but the engine continued to produce full power. The aircraft landed fast. When attempting to flare, the airplane was traveling too fast. The pilot reported that the airplane bounced and then came down hard. The pilot noted being very nervous and distracted due to the system failures.
Aircraft Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the aircraft and found the battery dead. Substantial damage was noted to the engine compartment and forward cabin/cockpit.