Background
The pilot, who is also the owner and builder of the experimental airplane, reported that he conducted taxi tests, a final engine run-up, and a flight control check before the second flight. The airplane had previously flown several months earlier with an identical outcome.
Flight and Accident
After rotation, the airplane climbed to approximately 3 feet above the runway. At that point, the nose dropped. The pilot applied full up elevator, but it had no effect. The airplane then struck the runway nose first, resulting in substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical deficiencies that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Weight and Balance
An FAA inspector estimated that the builder had added about 63 pounds through modifications to the original airplane plans. The pilot performed the weight and balance calculation using bathroom scales.
Recommendation
On his NTSB Form 6120.1, the pilot/owner/builder recommended: "Re-weigh aircraft with calibrated scales to determine weight and balance. Fix apparent nose heavy aircraft with appropriate movement of the battery or additional weight in the tail section."