Accident Sequence
The airplane lost engine power during initial climb at an altitude of approximately 150 feet above ground level. Unable to reach a suitable landing area, the pilot landed in the tops of trees.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the fuel selector valve had recently been replaced. According to maintenance records, the fuel tanks were drained into 5-gallon cans to accomplish the replacement, and the same fuel was later poured back into the wing tanks. The gascolator was found to contain contamination. Only trace amounts of fuel were found forward of the gascolator and in the carburetor.
Pilot Information
The pilot reported that a preflight inspection of the airplane was conducted prior to departure. The pilot's medical certificate had expired several years ago, and a flight review had not been completed in several years.