What happened
The pilot reported performing routine pre-flight maintenance by draining all moisture and foreign material from the aircraft's fuel sumps on both the day before and the day of the accident. Shortly after takeoff, the engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot attempted to execute a forced landing, but the airplane collided with terrain during the maneuver.
The investigation
A postaccident examination of the aircraft revealed significant issues within the fuel system. Investigators found water and other contaminants present in the fuel lines and components. Additionally, the inspection identified that the seals surrounding the fuel tank filler necks and caps had deteriorated, likely allowing moisture ingress despite the pilot's efforts to drain the sumps.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this accident were the presence of water and contaminants in the fuel system and the deteriorated seals on the fuel tank filler assemblies. Although the pilot took steps to remove moisture, the compromised sealing surfaces allowed contamination to persist or re-enter the system, leading to fuel system failure and subsequent engine power loss.