WPR21LA094

The pilot reported that, in cruise flight at 3,000 ft mean sea level, the engine began to sputter, and the airplane began to descend. The pilot maneuvered toward open fields, and about 50 ft above ground level, the engine rpm increased slightly. The airplane subsequently impacted a cable and terrain. The airplane was destroyed by a postcrash fire. An engine examination revealed no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the partial loss of engine power was not determined.

On January 25, 2021, about 1200 Pacific standard time, an experimental, amateur-built M1 airplane, N322TR, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Eagle Point, OR. The pilot and passenger received minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot reported that, during cruise flight at 3,000 ft mean sea level (msl), the engine began to sputter, and the airplane began to descend. In anticipation of a forced landing, he flew toward farm fields. About 50 ft above ground level, the engine rpm began to increase slightly, but the pilot did not attempt to climb. The airplane subsequently impacted a cable and terrain. The airplane was destroyed by the postaccident fire. Examination of the engine revealed impact damage and heat distress. The propeller remained attached to the propeller crankshaft flange. All engine accessories remained attached to the engine via their respective mounts. The intake and exhaust rocker arms were intact and undamaged. Mechanical continuity was established throughout the engine and valve train when the propeller was rotated by hand. Thumb compression was obtained on all six cylinders in proper firing order when the propeller was rotated by hand. Equal movement of the intake and exhaust valve rocker arms was noted on all six cylinders. All four cylinders were examined internally using a lighted borescope. The pistons were unremarkable. A normal amount of carbon deposits was observed on the tops of all six pistons. There was no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction that would have precluded normal operation.