Event Summary
After takeoff, during the initial climb at approximately 150 feet above ground level, the engine failed. The certified flight instructor (CFI) took control of the aircraft. With unsuitable terrain ahead and insufficient runway remaining, the CFI banked the airplane to the left and performed a hard landing on airport property.
Investigation Findings
The airplane was recovered and both wing fuel tank sump drains and the gascolator were drained to check for contaminants; none were found. A test propeller was installed, and the engine was started and found to operate normally.
The servo was disassembled, which revealed contaminant resembling gasket material inside the mixture housing assembly. According to overhaul personnel, the location of the contaminant could cause a loss of engine power. The servo had accumulated 498.5 hours since overhaul.