Accident Sequence
According to the pilot, the engine ran slightly rough during the first pre-takeoff run-up but smoothed out on a second run-up. A normal takeoff and climb were performed. The engine was operating smoothly until it suddenly lost power between 200 and 300 feet above ground level. Observing houses directly beyond the departure end of the runway, the pilot initiated an immediate left descending 90-degree turn and leveled the wings before the airplane impacted the ground.
Post-Accident Findings
Fluid samples taken after the accident revealed water in the right main fuel tank, gascolator, and carburetor bowl. The fuel filler cap O-rings were hardened and cracked. The fuel tank filler ports showed rust stains around the interior perimeter and rust corrosion on the interior filler flanges. The airplane had been delivered to the airport by the pilot in July for its annual inspection and to be placed for sale. It remained tied down outside without significant flight activity until the accident flight.
Compliance with Airworthiness Directive
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 83-12-01 was last complied with in July 2002. The AD requires that a placard reading "CAUTION Leaking fuel caps can cause loss of fuel and erroneously high fuel quantity indications" be placed adjacent to the fuel quantity gauges. It also calls for inspection of the fuel caps, seals, and filler ports for evidence of improper sealing or leaking. Examination of the cockpit revealed no such placards were present adjacent to the fuel quantity gauges as required.