Accident Overview
A commercial certificated pilot was operating a flight to a remote hunting camp. After landing to drop off a passenger, the pilot added approximately 12 gallons of fuel to the left wing fuel tank. The pilot then initiated a departure from an area described as being about 800 feet long, with the departure path being downhill.
Sequence of Events
During the takeoff, the airplane's fuel selector was positioned to 'BOTH'. As the airplane became airborne and climbed to an altitude of approximately 15 feet above ground level, the engine began to lose power. The pilot responded by selecting the left fuel tank. The engine subsequently began to regain power, but the airplane was unable to avoid a collision with trees. The impact caused the airplane to nose over.
Aircraft Damage
The accident resulted in damage to the left wing lift strut, the engine mount and firewall, and both wings.
Fuel Management Details
The pilot had placed about 12 gallons of fuel into the left wing tank prior to departure. The fuel selector was initially set to feed from both tanks. The power loss occurred shortly after becoming airborne, and switching to the left tank restored engine power, though insufficient time remained to avoid the trees.
Investigation Findings
No probable cause was stated in the source material.