Incident Overview
During the takeoff roll, the engine experienced a loss of power at an altitude of about 150 feet above ground level (AGL). The pilot reported that the engine resumed operation when the fuel tank selector was switched from the left to the right tank, but it subsequently stopped again. Efforts to return to the airport were unsuccessful.
Forced Landing
The aircraft was forced to land on soft terrain approximately 1/4 mile from the airport. During the landing, the aircraft nosed over, resulting in damage to the left wing.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the aircraft's fuel system revealed that the left wing fuel tank vent was blocked. However, the safety hole located above and behind the vent remained open. Both fuel tank cap vents were found to be functional. The engine was operationally checked and showed no preimpact failure. The only anomaly noted was that the No. 3 bottom spark plug lead was shorted at a cut near the plug terminal.
Findings
The investigation identified a blocked left wing fuel tank vent and a shorted spark plug lead as mechanical issues present at the time of the incident. The source does not provide a probable cause determination.