What happened
The pilot refueled the aircraft the previous night, but stated that only the left fuel tank was filled during the process. Prior to takeoff, the pilot checked the fuel levels and determined there were approximately 11 gallons remaining in the left tank.
After departing from the airport, the aircraft climbed to an altitude of approximately 400 feet when the engine began to sputter. The pilot searched for a suitable landing field and subsequently performed a forced landing. During the maneuver, the airplane encountered rough terrain, resulting in damage to the aircraft.
Findings
An FAA inspector interviewed the pilot regarding the incident. The pilot indicated that he believed the right fuel tank had been selected at the time of the engine failure. While the pilot believed he had switched the selector to the left tank prior to the engine failure, he could not be certain of the setting. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook and the pilot's own account, takeoffs must be conducted with the fuel selector in the left position.