Probable cause
The total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation, which resulted from debris restricting the fuel flow within the fuel system.
NTSB analysis
Following an uneventful takeoff and straight-out departure, the pilot leveled the airplane about 1,000 ft above ground level, at which point, the engine began to sputter, and it subsequently lost power. The pilot initiated a return to the departure airport; however, due to the low altitude, he initiated a forced landing to a nearby field. During the landing, the main landing gear collapsed, and the airplane nosed over. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the gascolator screen and fuel outlet port were partially restricted with red, sandlike debris, which would have restricted the fuel flow to the carburetor and led to the loss of engine power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR15LA003 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 5, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lincoln, California
- Nearest airport
- Lincoln Rgnl/Karl Harder Field (LHM)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built D
- N-number
- N3RH
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1972
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.