Incident Overview
An instructor pilot reported that he preflighted the aircraft and taxied to the refueling area. While there, another pilot approached and asked to join the flight. They agreed, and the instructor moved to the right seat. After completing the start-up, run-up, and takeoff checklists, the aircraft departed.
Power Loss and Emergency Landing
After climbing to approximately 150 feet, the engine lost power. The pilot turned away from buildings and homes to perform an emergency landing in a field. Just before reaching the field, the right wing struck the top cross piece of a telephone pole. The aircraft then crashed to the ground and sustained extensive damage. The pilot reported that just before impact, the engine began to regain power.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the aircraft revealed moisture in the cylinders. The left fuel tank contained fuel with no contamination, but the right tank had ruptured and fuel had spilled out. Inspection of the right fuel cap showed it would allow water to leak in: the bolts holding the cap were too long, and the cap could not be adjusted for a tighter fit. Additionally, the mixture control cable had pulled out of a fitting on the carburetor, but it showed no evidence of slippage before impact.