Event Description
During the departure, the aircraft had an empty right fuel tank and 17 gallons of fuel in the left tank. The fuel selector was set to the 'BOTH' position for takeoff. After becoming airborne, the pilot moved the fuel selector to the left tank. Within two to three minutes following takeoff, the engine began to run rough and sputter. The pilot attempted emergency checklist procedures, but these did not restore engine power.
For the forced landing, the pilot selected a runway. However, power lines crossed the approach path to that runway. As the aircraft cleared the power lines, its airspeed decreased. The aircraft then landed hard on the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the event, investigators confirmed flight control continuity. There was continuity of fuel flow throughout the fuel system, and no physical evidence of fuel leakage was found. The engine was examined; its continuity was confirmed, and no discrepancies that would prevent engine operation were identified. The carburetor was flow tested and disassembled. No fuel flow test variations or discrepancies were noted that would prevent operation of the carburetor.