Preflight and Fuel Drain
The aircraft had been parked outside during the previous week, subject to several heavy rain showers. Both the pilot and the pilot-rated passenger stated that they drained the fuel tanks using a one-pound coffee can. They did not observe any appreciable amount of water during the drain procedure.
Flight and Engine Failure
After takeoff, while climbing through an altitude of approximately 300 feet, the engine ceased operation. The pilot initiated a turn toward an agricultural strip located one mile southwest of the Orlando North Airport.
Forced Landing and Collision
While crossing the threshold of the agricultural strip, the aircraft struck a piece of farm machinery that was parked at the end of the strip. The impact separated the landing gear from the aircraft.
Post-Accident Findings
Subsequent examination revealed water in the fuel manifold valve and the fuel injection controller. Draining of the left fuel reservoir yielded two quarts of a mixture comprising 95% water and 5% fuel. Both fuel drain plugs were found to be extremely rusty.