Accident Overview
During takeoff on a maintenance test flight, approximately 200 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The 4,070-hour flight instructor reported that he turned the airplane back toward the airport and searched for a suitable landing area. During the ensuing forced landing, the airplane impacted the terrain, flipped over, and came to rest inverted.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the gascolator, which is connected to the carburetor fuel line, was blocked by rubber deposits. These deposits were consistent with the inner lining of the fuel line.