Event Overview
During a night cross-country flight, as the airplane climbed through 500 feet above ground level (agl), the pilot reported hearing a popping sound. This was immediately followed by a complete loss of engine power. The pilot activated the fuel boost pump and attempted to restart the engine, but the efforts were unsuccessful.
Fuel Selector Position
The pilot stated that at the time of the power loss, the fuel selector was positioned to the right tank. Subsequent examination confirmed the fuel selector was found in the right tank position.
Forced Landing and Location
A forced landing was executed to an area of rough terrain south of the departure airport. The aircraft came to rest upright in a ravine.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed the left fuel tank was empty, the right fuel tank was full, and the fuselage (header) tank contained 7 gallons of fuel. The engine was examined and test run; no anomalies were noted that would preclude operation of the engine. The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.