Background
The pilot/owner was informed by mechanics that the aircraft's fuel tanks had water contamination on two occasions prior to test flights. The pilot reported observing water contamination and believed the fuel caps were leaking. New caps were ordered for installation at the next annual inspection.
Before the new caps were installed, the aircraft sat exposed to rain. The pilot drained the fuel tank sump drains and then departed on a flight.
Incident
Shortly after takeoff, the engine sputtered and quit. The pilot attempted a forced landing, during which the aircraft collided with power lines.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-crash inspection revealed that the engine fuel system contained water. The fuel tank caps were found to have deteriorated seals and were leaking. The fuel reservoir tanks were found to have screw-in plugs instead of quick drain plugs. The fuel strainer and mixture control valve finger screen exhibited a substantial amount of corrosion buildup. No wrinkles were found in the fuel tank bladders. During the landing slide, the front of the aircraft entered the water of the Ochlocknee River with the tail resting on the river.