Accident Overview
A pilot reported that after departing with full fuel tanks (40 gallons) and completing a 50-minute flight, he remained on the ground without refueling before departing for his home airport. While cruising at 4,500 feet, the engine began surging with fluctuating fuel pressure. Activating the auxiliary fuel pump temporarily stopped the surging for about one minute, but it resumed. The pilot then turned toward the nearest airport for an emergency landing but determined there was insufficient gliding distance to reach the runway. The aircraft struck power lines approximately 50 yards from the runway and went inverted.
Witness Account
A witness observed the aircraft and heard the engine cutting in and out before it impacted the power lines.
Post-Accident Inspection
Examination of the airplane's fuel system after the accident revealed a small amount of fuel in the fuel lines, along with water, excessive contamination, corrosion, rust, and trash. The fuel tank bladder was contaminated with rust, corrosion, trash, and water. The engine was rotated and showed no binding; compression was noted on all cylinders, and no external damage was observed to the engine.