What happened
During a flight intended for a tailwheel endorsement, a commercial certificated flight instructor was providing instruction to the owner of the aircraft. Shortly after takeoff from a private airstable, the aircraft experienced a total loss of engine power. The flight instructor took control of the aircraft and executed a forced landing into nearby trees.
The accident resulted in structural damage to both wings and the rudder. There were no fatalities reported in the incident.
The investigation
An FAA airworthiness inspector conducted a post-accident inspection of the aircraft. The investigation revealed that the aircraft had undergone an annual inspection approximately nine flight hours before the accident occurred. During this inspection, the following issues were identified:
- An incorrect size carburetor had been installed by the mechanic performing the annual inspection.
- The center fuel tank contained corrosion and rust contamination.
- The outlet fuel screen in the center fuel tank was missing.
- The gascolator screen was found to be clogged with foreign debris.
Upon cleaning the gascolator, the inspector noted that the engine started and operated normally.