Incident Overview
During the takeoff and initial climb from a private airstrip, the engine power reduced to 70 percent. The pilot turned into the wind to execute a forced landing, but the aircraft ultimately landed perpendicular to the furrows in a cultivated field.
FAA Inspection Findings
A visual inspection of the engine by an FAA inspector revealed that the fuel transfer tube had migrated out of the fuel adapter, resulting in a fuel leak and power loss. The O-ring was protruding from the fuel adapter, and the lock plate at the #5 adapter was found bent and distorted.
Engine Test and Resolution
The fuel leak at the fuel transfer tube was confirmed by running the engine and observing the leaking fuel. Under this condition, the engine did not develop power above 72 percent Ng. After securing the fuel transfer tube in its proper position, the engine developed full power.
Maintenance Records
A review of the maintenance records by the FAA inspector indicated that the nozzles had accumulated 111 hours time in service. The maintenance entry for the last annual/100-hour inspection did not reveal any leaks or discrepancies.