On October 31, 2002, a Beech F33A (registration N3122K) was involved in an aviation accident near Fernandina Bch, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Water contamination in the fuel system which resulted in the loss of engine power and the subsequent collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a maintenance test flight, the airplane lost engine power after takeoff. The pilot attempted to return to the airport, but the airplane struck wooded terrain short of the runway. Both occupants evacuated safely; the aircraft was destroyed by post-crash fire.
Accident
The airplane was on a maintenance test flight with a pilot and an airframe and powerplant mechanic passenger. After takeoff, the airplane climbed to 2,500 feet and experienced a loss of engine power. Attempts by the pilot to restore engine power were unsuccessful. While attempting to return to the airport, the airplane collided into a wooded area short of runway 22. The pilot and mechanic exited the airplane. The airplane was consumed by post-crash fire.
Examination
During the on-scene engine examination, approximately eight ounces of water was drained from the fuel selector. Examination of the fuel strainer found rust on the strainer spring and heat damage on the internal rubber components. Approximately three ounces of water was drained from the sump during the on-scene examination. The engine was removed and sent to Teledyne Continental Motors for further examination.
Laboratory Findings
The internal examination of the fuel pump found it to be damaged in the post-crash fire. There were heavy deposits of lacquer found in the internal vanes of the fuel pump that operate the pumping action. The fuel manifold was flow tested and found to be within operating parameters. The engine-driven fuel pump could not be tested because it would not rotate.