Primary finding
Probable cause
The ditch the airplane encountered during the landing roll phase of a forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During a flight in preparation for an air race the airplane's engine ceased operation during cruise. The pilot performed a forced landing in a bean field. During the landing rollout the airplane collided with a ditch the pilot had not observed prior to the landing. The post accident investigation revealed the engine was modified and was not equipped with a starter, fuel boost pump, or engine primer. The airplane's fuel tank contained approximately three gallons of auto fuel. The ignition spark leads had water contamination on them at the magneto attach point. Corrosion was observed on the magneto harness block and distributor block spring. The spark plugs and wires were automotive.
Source record
Factual narrative
-