N14773

On May 20, 1994, at 1625 central daylight time, a Bellanca 17-30A, N14773, was substantially damage during a forced landing near Del Rio, Texas. The private pilot received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal cross country flight.

The pilot/operator reported the following information. During the takeoff initial climb from runway 13 at Del Rio, Texas, the pilot smelled an odor from the exhaust and the engine surged. The pilot switch the fuel selector from the left tank to the right tank and returned to the airport. Upon landing, the pilot and mechanic checked the airplane and did not find any discrepancies. They decided the smell was from a cleaning solvent on the exhaust system The engine was started and a ground run completed. The airplane again departed on runway 13. During the initial climb at 400 feet above the ground, the engine started loosing power and the pilot smelled the odor. During the forced landing in rough and uneven desert terrain, the main gear folded. The airplane skidded 120 feet, spun around, struck a vehicle and came to rest.

Structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and vertical stabilizer occurred. The Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) inspector obtained fuel samples from the airplane and the refueling source.

Fuel samples were analyzed by Armstrong Forensic Laboratory, Inc. of Arlington, Texas. The laboratory did not disclose any significant discrepancies in the fuel samples. Their report is enclosed.

An NTSB investigator examined the airplane on August 16, 1994. The exhaust system exhibited physical evidence of a leak. Electrical system wires were burned and melted. The wires were located adjacent to the fuel pump and lines.