Primary finding
Probable cause
A failure of the brake system during landing due to a hydraulic fluid leak, which resulted in a runway excursion.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during a test flight following an annual inspection, he landed normally, but the brakes faded almost immediately after he applied them. The pilot exited the runway, and the airplane collided with a fence, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing. Postaccident examination of the brake system revealed a small leak at the brake line fitting at the left caliper and the brake fluid reservoir was 2/3 empty.