On July 4, 1999, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-CD (registration N127G) was involved in an aviation accident near Jacksonville, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A blockage of the fuel line by sloshing compound, resulting in a loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine power loss during climb at 2,000 ft, leading to a forced landing in a cornfield. Investigation found sloshing compound blocking the fuel line between the header tank and gascolator.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported that the airplane was climbing through 2,000 feet mean sea level when the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing in a cornfield, during which the airplane sustained substantial damage.
Post-Accident Inspection
An inspection of the airplane after the event revealed material blocking the fuel line between the header tank and the gascolator, impeding fuel flow. The material had a consistency matching sloshing compound that was also found in the fuel tank. No record could be identified indicating when the fuel tank had been sealed with sloshing compound.
Maintenance History
The most recent annual inspection on the airplane was conducted on October 19, 1998. Since that inspection, the airplane had accumulated 32 hours of time in service.
Probable cause
A blockage of the fuel line by sloshing compound, resulting in a loss of engine power.