Incident Details
A pilot reported that the previous night, he had filled only the left fuel tank. Before takeoff, he checked the fuel level and determined that approximately 11 gallons were in the left tank. He then departed from the airport and climbed to about 400 feet, at which point the engine began to sputter. The pilot searched for a suitable landing area and executed a forced landing. During the landing, the airplane encountered rough terrain and sustained damage.
Pilot Account
According to an FAA inspector who interviewed the pilot, the pilot stated that he believed the right fuel tank had been selected at the time of takeoff. The pilot further stated that he thought he switched the fuel selector to the left fuel tank prior to the engine failure, but he was not certain.
Aircraft Information
The Pilot's Operating Handbook, as confirmed by the pilot, specifies that takeoffs must be made with the fuel selector in the left position. The pilot's account indicates that the fuel selector was likely in the right position during the takeoff, contrary to the required procedure.