Incident Details
The aircraft experienced a loss of engine power during the takeoff initial climb. Subsequently, it entered a steep descent and struck two single-family residences located approximately one-half mile from the end of the departure runway.
Investigation Findings
Evidence at the accident site, along with interviews with the aircraft's mechanic and the student pilot's flight instructor, indicated that the auxiliary fuel tank may have been supplying the engine during the takeoff and initial climb.
Fuel Selector Design Issue
In this aircraft, the 'OFF' nomenclature on the cockpit fuel tank selector was located on the aft side of the selector housing. This arrangement makes it easy to incorrectly infer that the long end of the selector handle should be pointed toward the desired fuel tank selection. This inference is incorrect. The potential for confusion is increased if the small arrow head on the opposite end of the handle has been partially obliterated with age, as was the case with this aircraft.