Incident Overview
During climb out, the airplane experienced a reduction in engine power followed by a complete loss of power. The flight instructor assumed control and executed a forced landing into a wooded area. The airplane collided with trees and came to rest inverted.
Fuel System Examination
Post-accident examination of the aircraft's fuel system revealed corrosive materials present in the fuel flow transducer. The corrosive substances blocked both the inlet and outlet ports of the transducer. This transducer is part of a supplemental type certificate modification designed to measure fuel flow. It is mounted on top of the engine and is the final component in the fuel system before the fuel flow divider.
Operational History
According to the operator, the aircraft had not been flown in several years. A current annual inspection had been completed; however, there is no inspection procedure specified for the transducer assembly.
Probable Cause
The probable cause is the blockage of both the in and out ports of the fuel flow transducer by corrosive materials, which resulted in a complete loss of engine power.