Incident Description
The aircraft collided with a ditch after a loss of power during the takeoff climb at approximately 350 to 400 feet above ground level. The pilot described the loss of power as "like taking the throttle and pulling off in a rapid motion."
Pilot Actions
During the preflight check, the pilot noticed that the fuel in the right main tank was lighter blue in color than that in the left main tank. He took two samples from the right main tank during the preflight and, during the engine run-up, ran the engine for an additional five minutes until all gauges were "in the green." The aircraft took off with the fuel selector positioned to the right main tank. After the loss of power, the pilot attempted a restart while executing a 180-degree turn to return to the airport. He indicated that he switched the fuel selector from the right main tank to the left main tank and checked that the fuel boost pump was still on.
Post-Impact Examination
As a result of the impact, the right main tank was ruptured and all the fuel escaped into the ditch. The engine was examined and there were no indications of mechanical failure.