Event Summary
Shortly after leveling off and beginning the cruise phase of a cross-country flight, the engine lost all power. The private pilot, who also owned the aircraft, executed a forced landing onto a highway. As the aircraft approached the landing flare, the vertical stabilizer struck a power cable, resulting in partial separation of the stabilizer from the tailcone.
Examination Findings
A subsequent examination of the engine revealed that the carburetor drain plug was missing. The pilot, who did not hold an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics certificate, had flown the airplane using automotive gasoline approximately 2 months before the accident. During that period, the engine experienced starting problems. In response, the pilot removed the carburetor drain plug to purge the fuel system of automotive gasoline. After performing this operation, the pilot did not secure the plug with safety wire.
Maintenance History
The carburetor was examined at a maintenance facility during its annual inspection, which occurred 1 month before the accident. Additionally, it had been examined 2 months prior when the pilot reported that the engine was running rough. On both occasions, maintenance personnel reported that the drain plug was secured with safety wire.