What happened
The pilot performed a preflight inspection that included draining the main sediment bowl for five seconds, followed by an additional five-second drain. After completing an engine run-up and ensuring all fuel tanks were selected to on, he initiated takeoff. As the aircraft climbed through approximately 350 feet above ground level, the engine began running roughly before it completely cut out. The pilot executed a forced landing in a clearing, where the aircraft touched down hard and nosed over.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that about one-half cup of water had been drained from the main strainer bowl. Water was also found at the outer four drain points within the fuel system. Inspection of the left wing tank sump drain and both belly sump drains showed significant corrosion, which prevented them from being opened with a standard fuel drain cup.
Findings
The presence of water in the fuel system indicates that contamination was not fully removed during preflight. The corrosion on the sump drains likely hindered effective water removal. This led to engine failure due to fuel contamination during the critical climb phase.