Accident Sequence
A maintenance test flight was conducted after the engine-driven fuel pump had been reinstalled following overhaul and the landing gear had been adjusted. The aircraft departed with approximately 40-50 gallons of fuel. The landing gear operated normally during the flight. After entering the traffic pattern for landing and turning onto base leg, the pilot reduced manifold pressure to 17 inches. At that point, the engine was not developing power. The pilot repositioned the fuel selector and turned on the boost pump, both with negative results. The aircraft touched down short of the runway and subsequently collided with a fence and trees.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, fuel quantity was verified sufficient. Fuel lines at the fuel distributor valve were removed and the boost pump was turned on; fuel flowed equally through both lines. The engine-driven fuel pump was removed for further examination. Bench testing revealed no flow through the pump due to the presence of contaminants under the relief valve. After cleaning, the pump operated normally. The bypass valve—which bypasses the engine-driven pump in case of its failure or malfunction—was also tested and operated normally.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not state a probable cause for the accident.