Incident Overview
The pilot reported being at cruise altitude approximately one hour after takeoff when he decided to transfer fuel from the right wing tank. About two minutes after initiating the fuel transfer, the engine began to "cut out" and subsequently ceased operating. The pilot then executed a forced landing to a field, during which the airplane incurred substantial damage.
Postcrash Examination
An FAA licensed mechanic with inspection authorization conducted a postcrash examination of the aircraft. The examination revealed that the carburetor drain plug contained drops of moisture that did not appear to be fuel. Additionally, the gascolator fuel bowl, mounted on the firewall, was found to be full of water and debris. According to the mechanic, the fuel bowl's drain valve was clogged.
Findings
The presence of water and debris in the fuel system components, including the carburetor drain plug and the gascolator fuel bowl, was noted. The clogged drain valve prevented proper drainage of the fuel bowl. The source does not provide further details regarding the origin of the contamination or any causal determination.