What happened
The pilot departed from Laramie, Wyoming, after topping off the fuel tanks of the Piper Cherokee Six. While flying at cruise altitude, the aircraft's engine lost power. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing. During the event, the pilot reported being slightly high, which resulted in an initial impact at near stall speed after removing the landing gear.
The investigation
An examination of the fuel system identified contaminated water within the fuel selector bowl. Investigators found that the drain lever was rusted in the closed position. Furthermore, the fuel pump filter was found to be covered with a rust-colored substance.
Findings
The investigation noted that Airworthiness Directive 7CC-12-01 requires the fuel selector valve to be inspected every 50 hours to prevent fuel system malfunctions and power interruptions. The most recent recorded inspection of this component was conducted 64 hours prior to the accident, which was 15 months before the event. Additionally, the Piper Cherokee Six service manual specifies procedures for removing, draining, and cleaning the fuel selector strainer bowl at least every 90 days.