Incident Overview
A pilot reported that while on initial climb from Sikeston Airport, the airplane's engine lost power at approximately 500 feet above ground level. The pilot turned the airplane toward the airport but determined that a return was not possible and subsequently landed in a pasture.
Fuel System Examination
Following the landing, it was observed that the fuel selector was positioned to the left wing tank. Both the left and right wing tanks indicated the presence of fuel. However, fuel drained from the left tank contained water.
Engine Inspection
An examination of the airplane's engine revealed that three of the lead wires from the dual magneto were chaffed and burnt. Additionally, arcing marks were found on three of the connector lead covers leading to three of the top spark plugs. No other anomalies were identified during the inspection.