Sequence of Events
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot climbed to approximately 300 feet and raised the landing gear and flaps. The aircraft was then turned to a heading of 360 degrees. At that point, the pilot turned off the fuel pump and verified that the fuel pressure was within the green arc. After only two seconds, the engine began to run roughly.
In response, the pilot immediately turned the fuel pump back on and leveled the airplane at an altitude between 400 and 500 feet. An emergency was declared, and the landing gear was lowered. Despite these actions, the engine continued to surge and barely run.
The pilot then turned the airplane, banking at an angle of about 50 to 60 degrees, in an attempt to reach runway 14. During this maneuver, the airplane stalled and subsequently collided with the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the engine was conducted. A large amount of granular debris was found clogging the fuel servo filter. This debris obstructed the fuel flow, leading to the engine's degraded performance and eventual failure.
Probable Cause
Examination of the engine found a large amount of granular debris clogging the fuel servo filter.