On May 23, 1989, a Cessna 170B (registration N3132B) was involved in an aviation accident near Birchwood, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO ASSURE THAT THE FUEL SELECTOR WAS IN THE PROPER DETENT FOR TAKEOFF. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS: THE SOFT/MUDDY TERRAIN CONDITIONS IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot reported an engine run-up with the fuel selector on the left tank, then switched to the right for takeoff. During climb, the engine lost power and the aircraft was damaged during an emergency landing in a swamp.
Incident Overview
The pilot of a single-engine aircraft reported that during the pre-takeoff engine run-up, the fuel selector was positioned to the left tank. The selector was then moved to the right tank for takeoff. After departure, the aircraft climbed to approximately 200 to 300 feet above ground level, at which point the engine lost power.
Emergency Landing and Damage
Subsequently, the pilot executed an emergency landing in a swamp/mud flat area, during which the aircraft sustained damage.
Post-Incident Examination
Examination of the aircraft and engine revealed no pre-impact part failure or malfunction. The pilot reported that during the emergency restart procedure, when he touched the fuel selector handle, he felt the selector go into the right detent position.