ERA20LA050

Factual narrative

On December 8, 2019, about 1515 central standard time, an experimental, amateur-built Zenith Zodiac CH-650, N914AR, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at Willow Springs, Missouri. The private pilot sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. According to the pilot, he adjusted the ground adjustable propeller and was going to test fly the airplane. During the initial climb, the engine lost total power. A few seconds later, the engine restarted on its own, but shortly lost total power again. He turned back to the runway but knew he would not make it and set up for an off-field landing. The pilot did not recall additional events leading up to the accident. Examination of the airplane by a Certified Airframe and Powerplant mechanic revealed that the fuel pump was weak on pressure and the diaphragm was leaking. The electric fuel pump was installed between the engine driven pump and the carburetor, causing low fuel pressure. The fuel flow meter was not installed correctly using the proper fittings. The fuel flow meter was installed using a pipe fitting connected to a flare fitting. All fittings were finger tight. According to the pilot of the experimental, amateur-built airplane, he was taking the airplane out for a test flight after making some adjustments to the propeller blade angles. During the initial climb, the engine lost power, restarted on its own and lost power again. The pilot turned back to the airport, but the airplane could not reach the runway and he conducted a forced landing off-field, which resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. Examination of the airplane by a certified mechanic revealed that the fuel pump was weak on pressure and the electric fuel pump was installed incorrectly between the engine driven pump and the carburetor. The fuel flow meter was installed using pipe fittings connected to flare fittings. All fittings were finger tight. These discrepancies were consistent with improper maintenance practices on the fuel system and likely resulted in a reduction in fuel flow during the initial climb after takeoff, and a loss of engine power due to fuel starvation. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database Retrieved: 2026-02-12

NTSB Findings

FAA avdata. C = Cause, F = Factor.

• C Aircraft-Fluids/misc hardware-Misc hardware-Hoses and tubes-Incorrect service/maintenance
• — Personnel issues-Task performance-Maintenance-Scheduled/routine maintenance-Maintenance personnel
• — Aircraft-Aircraft systems-Fuel system-Fuel pumps-Incorrect service/maintenance
• — Personnel issues-Task performance-Maintenance-Installation-Maintenance personnel