On June 30, 1992, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415C (registration N3165H) operated by Hernan D. Posada was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Clarita, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL STARVATION CAUSED BY THE INFLIGHT SEPARATION OF THE FUEL GASCOLATOR BOWL DUE TO IMPROPER COMPONENT INSTALLATION. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An experimental aircraft experienced engine failure during cruise; the pilot attempted a forced landing in a field, colliding with brush and trees. Post-accident examination revealed the gascolator bowl was missing from its mount with no evidence of damage.
Accident Overview
A pilot, who is also an airframe and powerplant mechanic, had purchased the aircraft and completely rebuilt it. The aircraft had accumulated only 15 hours of flight time since the rebuild when the accident occurred. During level cruise, the engine began to sputter and subsequently reduced power to idle. The pilot attempted all procedures to restart the engine but was unsuccessful.
Forced Landing
Unable to restore engine power, the pilot executed a forced landing in a field. During the landing roll, the aircraft collided with high sage brush and small trees, which brought the aircraft to a stop.
Post-Accident Examination
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors conducted an on-site examination of the aircraft. The gascolator bowl was found missing from its firewall mount. A search of the aircraft's ground roll path did not locate the missing component. A detailed examination of the mounting area on the firewall revealed no evidence of any damage.