Accident Summary
On May 30, 2011, at approximately 0800 central daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Jones Cozy Mark IV, registration N204TJ, suffered a partial loss of engine power while maneuvering. The pilot diverted to Sioux Gateway Airport/Col. Bud Day Field (SUX) in Sioux City, Iowa, but due to a fuel smell, he performed a precautionary engine shutdown and landed in a field near the airport. The certificated private pilot sustained minor injuries, and the airplane incurred substantial damage to its wing. The flight was operated under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan had been filed.
Flight Details
The local flight originated from SUX about 0730. The pilot reported that the engine began to sputter while the airplane was maneuvering at 7,500 feet mean sea level. He then diverted to SUX. Approximately 10 miles from the airport, he turned the fuel selector off because he smelled fuel and became concerned about a possible engine fire. The pilot indicated that a strong headwind prevented a glide to the airport, and when he realized the airplane could not reach runway 13 at SUX, he executed a forced landing to a field near the approach end of the runway.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, the gascolator gasket dislodged during flight, allowing air to enter the fuel system and resulting in the loss of engine power. The last inspection of the airplane was a condition inspection performed by the pilot on May 7, 2010. The pilot stated that he did not properly install the gascolator gasket during that inspection.