N87792

Substantial
Minor

PIPER J3C-65S/N: 15450

Accident Details

Date
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
NTSB Number
CEN10CA211
Location
White Bear Lake, MN
Event ID
20100421X84625
Coordinates
45.116390, -92.995834
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
1
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

A total loss of engine power during takeoff due to fuel contamination as a result of the pilot's inadequate preflight inspection.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
15450
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1946
Model / ICAO
J3C-65J3
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
J3C-65

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
CAHOON DAVID W
Address
2806 WINDOVER CV
City
JONESBORO
State / Zip Code
AR 72401-5974
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that he conducted a normal preflight, run-up, and takeoff. The engine stopped during the takeoff climb about 150 – 200 feet above ground level (agl). The pilot restarted the engine 3 – 4 times, but the engine was producing less power each time. With the engine stopped, the pilot executed a forced landing to a field with trees in it. The airplane sustained substantial damage on impact with trees and terrain. The inspection of the airplane’s fuel system revealed that the fuel line between the fuel sump (strainer) and the carburetor was full of water. The inspection of the airplane revealed no other anomalies.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN10CA211