Event Summary
During the initial climb after takeoff for a cross-country flight, the engine began to run rough. The pilot turned the aircraft back toward the airport, but the engine subsequently lost all power. A forced landing was made in a field. During the landing, the left fuel tank ruptured and a fire erupted. The aircraft was destroyed. The pilot and one passenger received serious injuries; the other passenger and a dog were not injured.
Examination Findings
Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction. Water was found in the fuel injection distribution valve, and the valve was free of corrosion. The aircraft had been parked for 3 days with partially filled fuel tanks in an environment where the temperature variance over a 24-hour period averaged 30 to 40 degrees. There was evidence that with the temperature variance, condensation may have occurred in the partially filled fuel tanks.
Preflight Actions
The pilot said he was aware of a possible condensation problem and had ordered fuel upon arrival. The FBO, however, waited 3 days before servicing the aircraft. The pilot also said he drained the sumps during his preflight and found no contaminants or water.