Incident Overview
A post-accident examination determined that a fuel line fitting from the gascolator to the fuel pump had leaked, leading to a fire that consumed the airplane. The source of ignition for the fire could not be determined. According to the Federal Aviation Administration accident coordinator, a review of the airplane's logbooks showed no recent maintenance had been performed on the leaking fitting.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that after taxiing to the run-up area, he shut down the engine to retrieve items from the baggage compartment. Upon restarting the engine, he shortly felt heat and observed flames emanating from the lower portion of the engine cowling. The fire subsequently engulfed the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident functional testing conducted by the FAA accident coordinator identified a leak at the fuel line fitting connecting the gascolator to the fuel pump. Despite the presence of flammable fluid, the exact ignition source could not be established based on available evidence. The logbook review indicated no recent maintenance activity on that fitting prior to the incident.