IMPORTANT ALERT -- Engine quits on takeoff due to undetectable water in fuel

[n86121]

Having had some exciting moments just after I bought my 'thrasher, I realized the importance of those through wing drains.

Every time I was flying to Boston, the front engine would surge over Baltimore. I thought, "What is is about Baltimore my engine doesn't like?"

It was a thin bit of hidden water in the tank that took about 15 minutes in climb to hit the engine.

Ever since, I always intentionally drool a bit of fuel to make sure they are clear. If not, I always carry some 2 ft pipe cleaners bought on ebay, and clear the drains.

I consider blocked drains a no-go item until cleared.