Accident Overview
During takeoff, the aircraft experienced a power loss and subsequently made a hard landing. The ground was soft from recent rain, and the nose gear fork failed as it dug into the dirt.
Pre-Flight Checks
The pilots reported that before takeoff they had checked for water in the fuel from both wing sumps and the gascolator. No issues were found during that check.
Maintenance and Weather Exposure
The aircraft was last serviced approximately two weeks prior to the accident. Since that service, the aircraft had been left outside in the rain.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector at the accident site drained 8 ounces of water from the gascolator bowl. A detailed examination of the entire fuel system later revealed water in the right fuel tank and at the fuel selector valve drain. Additionally, the left fuel cap was found to leak when water was poured on it while installed.
Airworthiness Directive Compliance
The owner stated that an airworthiness directive (AD) against the fuel system of this aircraft had not been complied with because the maximum hours allowed for compliance had not been used.