Cardinal 177/177RG
Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 2.5; Flight Crew Total 1430; Flight Crew Type 8
Human-Machine Interface
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue
Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft; Human Factors; Weather
While beginning initial descent; with carb heat on; the engine lost power. After switching tanks turning fuel pump on with no resolution; considered landing options. Determined unable to safely make any airport in vicinity began looking for most suitable off airport landing spot. Located an open field with no apparent obstructions and landed with no damage to pilot or aircraft. Apparently landed adjacent to private grass strip that was not apparent to me at the time. Upon landing and determining no damage to aircraft or myself began to troubleshoot aircraft. Upon draining fuel from both wings found water in both tanks. Previously prior to morning flight had sumped both tanks and found water. Continued to drain the fuel until no water appeared. Flew 148 NM that morning. The incident occurred upon the return flight about 13 miles short of destination. The plane was on ramp for approximately 8 hours in clear conditions I did not sump the fuel prior to return trip due to clear conditions throughout the day and did not take on more fuel. Upon conversation with experienced pilots of this type aircraft the best practice is to shake the wing vigorously in order to make sure any water gets to the drain and sump again.
C177 pilot reports power loss as descent is initiated for landing. With insufficient altitude to reach the destination airport resulting in a successful off airport landing. Water is found in the fuel; as it was prior to departure and thought to be thoroughly drained.