Primary finding
Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to fuel flow interruption, which resulted from a stuck carburetor bowl needle.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that he taxied to the end of the runway, conducted an engine run-up, and prepared for takeoff. He said that the airplane developed full power during the initial climb but that it began to lose power about 300 feet above ground level. He turned back toward the airport and made an emergency landing in vegetation on the side of the runway. The airplane’s right wing was substantially damaged. Postaccident examination revealed that the carburetor bowl needle was stuck in the closed position. The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that he taxied to the end of the runway, conducted a run up, and prepared for takeoff. He said that the airplane developed full power during the initial climb, but began to lose power at approximately 300 feet above ground level. He made a 180-degree turn back towards the runway, but was unable to make it to the airport. He made an off field emergency landing which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing. During an examination of the engine, the carburetor bowl needle was found stuck in the closed position. The pilot did not report any flight control malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.