Event
Shortly after takeoff, while reaching an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level, the aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power. The pilot executed a forced landing onto a turf field adjacent to the runway. During the landing, the aircraft nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position.
Pilot Statements
The pilot reported to FAA inspectors that the aircraft had been parked outside prior to the flight with less than full fuel. The pilot also stated that rainwater had entered the right fuel tank through the filler cap.
Fuel Contamination
Post-accident fuel sampling revealed approximately 20 percent water contamination in the right fuel tank and in the carburetor. The pilot noted that when the floatplane is on floats, it rests in a slightly nose-low attitude, which positions any water away from the fuel drain low point. The pilot recommended that in order to ensure effective drainage, the floatplane should be tilted to a flying attitude before draining the fuel.