N19LC

On December 8, 2004, at 1520 eastern standard time, a homebuilt VP-2, N19LC, was substantially damaged during a forced landing, after experiencing a total loss of engine power, while climbing out from the Warrenton-Fauquier Airport (W66), Warrenton, Virginia. The certificated private pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the local test flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91.

According to the pilot, he had just completed recent maintenance to the airplane's converted automobile engine. Before conducting the accident flight, the pilot ran the engine for 20 minutes, of which 1 minute was at full power. After takeoff, the engine began to run rough, and the cylinder head temperature rose. The engine rpm then progressively dropped from full power to 2,300 rpm, and the pilot attempted to return to the airport; however, he conducted a forced landing to a clearing as the aircraft settled with limited power. During the forced landing, the airplane struck trees, and subsequently impacted the ground.

The pilot added that the engine had seized on a prior flight, in September 2004.

Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector revealed substantial damage to the wings. The inspector also noted that the engine had seized, and heat damage was noted.