Accident Overview
According to an FAA inspector, multiple witnesses stated that a pilot was conducting airplane rides from his private grass airstrip. On the fifth and final ride, during the initial climb after takeoff, the engine stopped. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft turn approximately 180 degrees toward the departure runway, but it descended quickly and impacted the ground in a level attitude.
Investigation Findings
On-scene examination revealed the presence of fuel and no obvious anomalies. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), along with a representative from the engine manufacturer, conducted a detailed examination. Crash-related damaged parts were replaced, and a club propeller was fitted to allow a test run of the engine.
During the test run, when fuel was added, it poured from the carburetor. This behavior was consistent with the needle valve being stuck in the open position due to an obstruction. After tapping on the wall of the carburetor, the obstruction was cleared, and fuel stopped flowing out. The test run was then completed without further anomalies.
A subsequent teardown examination of the carburetor revealed debris within the carburetor float bowl that was large enough to block the needle valve or fuel metering orifice.