Incident Overview
A pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, while climbing at approximately 2,000 feet above ground level and about 3 miles north of the airport, the airplane entered a turn to the east. During the turn, the engine began to cut in and out. The pilot immediately initiated a turn back toward the airport and advanced all engine controls forward. Despite these actions, the engine continued to surge intermittently before eventually stopping completely.
Water Landing
At the time of the engine failure, the airplane was over a lake. The pilot turned to parallel the shoreline and performed a landing on the water, approximately 100 feet from the shore.
Post-Incident Examination
An examination of the airplane's fuel system revealed less than one quart of fuel between the fuel tank and the gascolator. No other anomalies or mechanical issues were identified with the airplane.
Fuel Quantity
The low fuel quantity was noted, but the investigation did not explicitly state a probable cause for the engine power loss. The pilot's actions in response to the emergency were documented.