Accident Summary
On March 8, 2018, about 1045 central standard daylight time, a Bereznak Lancair Legacy, registration N60JN, experienced a partial loss of engine power while in cruise flight at 9,500 feet. The pilot performed a forced landing in a plowed field one mile northwest of Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport (TPL) in Temple, Texas. The pilot sustained minor injuries; the passenger was not injured. The airplane was destroyed.
The airplane was registered to and operated by Airborne Legacy, LLC, of Austin, Texas, under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time. A visual flight rules (VFR) flight plan had been filed for the flight, which originated at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) and was destined for Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL).
Pilot Actions
According to the pilot's report, after leveling off at 9,500 feet, he switched from the right fuel tank to the left fuel tank to maintain balance. He noticed a change in the engine sound and a decline in fuel flow; the airplane was not equipped with a fuel pressure gauge. He switched back to the right fuel tank and turned on the auxiliary fuel pump, but the issue persisted. During the approach to TPL, manifold pressure was registering, but airspeed was decreasing. The pilot advanced the throttle slightly, then applied full throttle. The engine did not respond. Realizing he could not glide to TPL, he made a forced landing in a plowed field.
Engine Examination
On April 4, 2018, the engine was examined at the facilities of Air Salvage of Dallas (ASOD) in Lancaster, Texas. The engine was intact and undamaged, remaining attached to the airframe. No discrepancies were found that would have prevented the production of rated horsepower.
The fuel selector handle was separated just below the handle selector. The two "U" joints and the drive shaft were intact. The selector valve was found in the 90 percent closed position. The fuel selector assembly exhibited extensive wear.