Accident Sequence
During the initial climb after takeoff, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power when the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 200 feet above ground level. The engine stoppage occurred because the fuel selector had been positioned on a fuel tank that was virtually empty at the time of departure. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing, which resulted in the aircraft coming to rest in trees.
Fuel State
An investigation revealed that the aircraft had an ample supply of fuel, totaling about 70 gallons, distributed among the three remaining fuel tanks. However, the time available after the engine failed was insufficient to allow the pilot to switch the fuel selector valve and restart the engine before impact.
Conclusion
The event resulted from the pilot's action of commencing the flight with the fuel selector set to a tank containing minimal fuel. The engine failure at low altitude left little opportunity for corrective action.