What happened
The pilot reported that the engine lost power at approximately 300 feet above ground level following takeoff. Consequently, a forced landing was executed in a cornfield. During the landing roll, the aircraft nosed over.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage after the accident revealed water contamination within the fuel system. The gascolator was found to be full of water. Additionally, the left fuel tank, which was the tank selected for flight, contained 12 ounces of water.
Findings
The presence of water in the fuel system, specifically filling the gascolator and contaminating the selected left fuel tank, indicates fuel contamination as a critical factor in the loss of engine power.