Accident Overview
During a takeoff on runway 14, the pilot reported that he was cleared for departure and applied full power. At rotation, approximately 104 knots, the right engine lost power. The pilot lowered the nose and applied full left rudder, but the airplane continued off the right side of the runway.
Sequence of Events
After departing the runway, the airplane collided with two taxiway signs. The right main landing gear sheared off during the collision, and the airplane came to rest facing the opposite direction of travel. The pilot stated that after the accident, he turned off all switches before exiting the airplane.
Investigation Findings
An FAA inspector examined the aircraft and found that the fuel selectors were positioned to the auxiliary tanks. The pilot reported that he had departed with the fuel selectors on the main tank position. The right auxiliary fuel tank was drained and contained 3.5 gallons of fuel.
According to the Pilot Operating Handbook (POH), pilots are instructed to "Takeoff and land on main fuel tanks only" and "Do not take off if Fuel Quantity Gages indicate in Yellow Arc or with less than 13 gallons in each main tank." The pilot reported that he had approximately 56 gallons of fuel on board, with one quarter in the auxiliary tanks and three quarters in the main tanks.
The engine was test run after the accident and operated satisfactorily.