Power Loss and Witness Report
The airplane experienced a loss of engine power shortly after takeoff, at an altitude between 100 and 200 feet above ground level. A witness reported hearing the engine backfire several times before it lost power completely. The pilot attempted to return to the airport, but the airplane crashed shortly thereafter.
Engine Examination
Post-crash examination of the engine revealed multiple deficiencies. The ignition harnesses and several spark plugs were in poor condition. Several ignition leads were deteriorated, and three-quarters of all leads were improperly connected to the magnetos. When operationally tested, the spark plugs fired intermittently and broke down under pressure.
Additional evidence of poor maintenance was found, including water contamination in the carburetor bowl and a deteriorated carburetor accelerator pump.
Maintenance History
The airplane had undergone a 100-hour inspection four months before the accident, which equated to 128 flight hours prior to the event.