Event Overview
An aircraft that had not been flown for approximately one month crashed shortly after takeoff when the engine lost power during the initial climb. The pilot, aware of water accumulation in bladder-equipped aircraft of that model, had drained the gascolator for an extended period and also drained the wing tanks prior to departure. The start, taxi, and run-up procedures were all normal.
Sequence of Events
After departure, the pilot initiated a climbing turn. At an altitude of approximately 1,500 feet, the pilot felt the aircraft lose power. Pumping the throttle yielded no response. The pilot called the tower and stated, "he had a problem and was coming in." The tower cleared the aircraft to land on Runway 33R. The pilot then declared an emergency and indicated that he was aiming for any runway he could reach. This transmission was blocked by a simultaneous tower call. Subsequently, the pilot inadvertently keyed the microphone, blocking further transmissions.
Maneuvering and Landing
As the pilot maneuvered for Runway 04, he observed a potential conflict with a Boeing 737 approaching Runway 28 and diverted to Runway 15R. Unable to reach that runway, he turned right and executed a forced landing, mushing into the ground to the left of Runway 33L. Upon ground contact, the landing gear collapsed.
Aircraft Damage
The landing gear collapsed during the ground impact. No further damage details were provided in the source.