Water Contamination in Carburetor Leads to Engine Failure During Climb (N5266T)

What happened

The pilot conducted a preflight inspection and runup prior to takeoff. During the climb-out phase, at an altitude of approximately 450 feet, the engine ceased operation. The aircraft subsequently impacted trees.

The investigation

A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the carburetor and gascolator contained more than half their capacity in water. This contamination was identified as the primary mechanical anomaly. Inspections of the fuel pumps and filters available at the airport indicated they were satisfactory and not the source of the contamination.

Findings

The presence of significant water in the fuel system components directly contributed to the engine failure. The satisfactory condition of the airport's fueling equipment suggests the contamination was likely introduced prior to refueling or through other means not identified in the immediate inspection of airport supplies.