Accident Summary
During the ground roll of the takeoff, witnesses reported that the engine developed intermittent power. Despite this, the takeoff continued. After reaching approximately 150 feet above ground level, the pilot initiated a left turn to return to the airport. During the turn, the aircraft stalled and crashed on airport property. The pilot was removed from the burning aircraft and transported to the hospital, where he subsequently died from his injuries. The local fire department extinguished the fire.
Examination Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of failure or malfunction of the flight controls. Examination of the engine determined that no definitive cause could be established for the reported intermittent power. The ignition harness and left magneto were damaged by fire. The right magneto operated normally, as did the spark plugs. The magneto switch at the accident site was positioned to the right magneto, and it tested normally.
Engine Analysis
Fuel continuity from each fuel tank to the gascolator was verified. The fuel line from the gascolator to the carburetor was damaged by fire. Examination of the carburetor revealed that the float was destroyed and the primary venturi was not installed. An identical engine at the manufacturer's facility, with the venturi removed from the carburetor, showed no degradation of engine performance.