Incident Details
According to the pilot, after landing the engine quit while the aircraft was being turned around on the runway. The pilot attempted to restart the engine several times but was unsuccessful. Subsequently, the pilot exited the aircraft and pushed it to the runway shoulder.
A local mechanic, who is also a pilot, arrived and assisted. The mechanic attempted to start the engine. While outside the aircraft, the pilot noticed a fire in the engine cowling. The mechanic then shut off the fuel and exited the aircraft along with the pilot's passenger.
The pilot reported that there was no fire extinguisher nearby. The fire was allowed to spread, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft.
Aircraft Manual Guidance
The Cessna Pilot's Operating Handbook cautions pilots about the hazard of fire in the induction system if fuel is allowed to accumulate. The handbook states: 'Pumping the throttle may cause raw fuel to accumulate in the intake air duct, creating a fire hazard in the event of a backfire. If this occurs, maintain a cranking action to suck the flames into the engine.'