Background
A student pilot reported that after finishing work at a local pizza restaurant, he decided to go flying—a habit he stated. His wife and three friends accompanied him on the flight. During the preflight inspection, the pilot did not drain the fuel gascolator, a step listed in the owner's handbook.
Flight Events
The first takeoff attempt was delayed when the engine quit during runup. The pilot believed the engine stoppage occurred because the primer was not fully closed. After pushing the airplane back to the ramp, it remained stationary until a second engine start was accomplished. During the subsequent initial climb after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot stated that the airplane began turning and diving to the right, so he tried to apply back pressure to the yoke and a little rudder. He heard the stall warning horn when the engine power decreased, though the airplane was equipped only with a stall warning light. Passengers on the airplane reported that after takeoff, the nose was pitched up abnormally high, then the airplane rolled and descended to impact.
Fuel System Examination
Examination of the fuel system revealed water contamination.