NTSB Identification: LAX89DVD02 For details, refer to NTSB microfiche #38310A

Accident occurred FEB-04-89 at TRACY, CA

Aircraft: WAR REPLICAS P-51, registration: N51K

Injuries: 1, fatal

During a local test flight, the pilot lost control of the half-scale P-51 airplane while turning from downwind to base. The airplane collided with the terrain short of the runway. Inspection of the airplane revealed that the aileron control bellcrank was not installed in accordance with records held by the pilot/manufacturer. Witnesses reported seeing both ailerons and the wings fluttering before the crash. Evidence indicated aileron overtravel. The cockpit control stick was not equipped with control travel stops.

The improper installation of the aileron controls of this homebuilt aircraft by the pilot/manufacturer which led to the inflight loss of control of the airplane. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's inexperience in the airplane.