CHI94DER03

The pilot stated while in cruise flight, the homebuilt airplane experienced an electrical failure, followed by a total loss of engine power. The pilot made a forced landing in a wooded area. Postaccident investigation revealed the alternator had failed. The airplane engine was a converted subaru automotive engine, with electronic ignition and fuel injection. The airplane had about 45 hours total flight time.

On September 8, 1994, at 0955 central daylight time, a Smart CP 301, N60AG, operated by the owner/builder/private pilot, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing in a wooded area near Remer, Minnesota. The private pilot, the sole occupant, received serious injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight, no flight plan was filed. The personal flight originated from Park Rapids, Minnesota at 0915, with an intended destination of Grand Rapids, Minnesota.

The pilot reported the homebuilt airplane was en route to Grand Rapids when it experienced a loss of electrical power due to alternator failure. The pilot stated after the initial loss of electrical power, there was a loss of engine RPM, so he started towards a grass landing strip at Remer, Minnesota. As the airplane neared the airstrip, there was a total loss of engine power. The pilot set up a power off glide and tried to land near a road in a wooded area. The airplane descended through trees and came to rest in a swampy area near the road.

Postaccident investigation revealed the airplane engine was a conversion of a Subaru automotive engine, with electronic ignition and fuel injection. While en route to the grass airstrip, the battery failed, followed by a total loss of engine power. Maintenance records indicated the airplane had about 45 hours total flight time since it received its airworthiness certificate.