Accident Details
The airplane impacted terrain during a forced landing following a total loss of engine power. The pilot reported that this was the first 'test' flight after repair and re-assembly of the airplane, which had a previous accident on 5/9/96.
Flight Sequence
The pilot took off from runway 04. During the initial climb-out phase at about 150 feet above ground level (AGL), a complete loss of engine power occurred. The pilot reported that he 'pumped' the throttle, which resulted in a 'momentary burst' of power. He continued to pump the throttle, but this did not yield further results. The pilot then executed a forced landing, banking the airplane to the left. It contacted power lines, then impacted the ground, turned 180 degrees, and came to rest upright, adjacent to a line of trees.
Examination Findings
Examination of the carburetor revealed that the float valve retractor clip was improperly installed, which restricted float travel. Additionally, the float drop was improperly set at 1.5 inches; the proper setting was between 1.72 to 1.78 inches. The restricted float travel resulted in fuel starvation to the engine and subsequent loss of engine power.