Accident Summary
Shortly after takeoff, the airplane's engine lost power. The pilot reported that just before the power loss, he had closed the fuel valve to the center fuel tank and opened the valve to the right fuel tank. The airplane lacked a starter motor, and the pilot could not restart the engine before colliding with a parked car.
Pilot Actions
The pilot stated that the fuel valve manipulation was performed moments before the power loss. He attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful due to the absence of a starter motor.
Postaccident Findings
A postaccident inspection revealed no preaccident mechanical anomalies. However, the airplane was not equipped with the required quick drain valve in the center fuel tank. This valve was mandated by a supplemental type certificate related to wing-mounted fuel tank installation and an FAA airworthiness directive, intended to ensure removal of water and contaminants from the center tank.
Fuel System Issues
Before the flight, the pilot had drained a small amount of water from the center tank using the fuel line gascolator. The National Transportation Safety Board investigator-in-charge, an FAA inspector, and the pilot determined that two cups of undrainable fluid remain in the center tank when the gascolator is used for draining. Additionally, the center tank cap was not fitted with a seal or O-ring. During the two weeks preceding the accident, the airplane was exposed to heavy rain.