Accident Overview
The airplane collided with trees and terrain after experiencing a loss of engine power during the initial climb following takeoff. The pilot was repositioning the aircraft to another airport after having dropped off a passenger.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, the engine lost power when the airplane was between 200 and 300 feet above ground level (agl) during the takeoff initial climb. He attempted to turn back to the runway but determined he did not have sufficient altitude to complete the maneuver. The pilot then elected to stall the airplane into the trees located on the south slope of the airport boundary.
The accident was witnessed by personnel at the airport. Witnesses reported that the pilot departed using runway 23. After takeoff, the airplane performed a steep, nearly vertical ascent and then banked hard to the left (south). The pilot appeared to stall the airplane, which subsequently entered the trees on the south side of the runway.
Pilot Information
The pilot held an airframe and powerplant mechanic certificate and was the primary maintainer of the airplane.
Wreckage Examination
Federal Aviation Administration inspectors examined the wreckage at the accident scene, and Safety Board investigators later conducted an examination following recovery. Disassembly of the gascolator revealed that both the upper and lower gaskets were 1/8 to 3/16 inches smaller in diameter than the gascolator canister and the top and bottom covers. Investigators observed that to effect a seal, both gaskets needed to be centered when installed; both gaskets were found to be off center.
No fuel was observed in the fuel lines. The manifold valve was disassembled and found to be dry and devoid of any fuel. The manifold valve body and screen were clean. No other discrepancies were found during the engine examination.