Primary finding
Probable cause
The partial failure of the fuel injection system. Factors related to the accident are the pilot's insufficient altitude to reach the runway from the downwind leg, and the presence of transmission wires in the off airport landing site.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The airplane lost engine power on the downwind leg of the landing pattern. The airplane was at altitude that the pilot judged to be insufficient to reach the airstrip, and an off airport landing was attempted. The airplane struck transmission lines during the approach and crashed in a field. An examination of the fuel injection system discovered a faulty seal which allowed the engine to run too rich to sustain operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
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