Incident Overview
During the takeoff climb, the aircraft lost engine power and was landed straight ahead. The landing resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.
Fuel Selector Valve Findings
Post-incident examination found that the fuel selector valve was difficult to move. Subsequent testing showed that moving the valve caused the engines to quit. Disassembly of the valve revealed scratch marks on the sliding portion, which are indicative of binding.
Relevant Airworthiness Directive
Piper Airworthiness Directive 80-18-10 warns that Scott-manufactured selector valves "could cause power loss due to malfunction of the valves."
Conclusion
The incident involved a power loss during takeoff climb, leading to an immediate off-airport landing. The binding fuel selector valve was identified as a contributing factor, consistent with the warnings in the applicable airworthiness directive.