Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during the takeoff and initial climb, while near the end of the runway at an altitude of 150 feet, the airplane's engine began to sputter and act as if it would cease operating. The pilot glanced at the fuel selector switch, confirming it appeared to be in the proper position, and then started pumping the throttle. The engine seemed to recover momentarily, but as the pilot continued pumping the throttle, the engine finally ceased operating. The pilot maneuvered to avoid obstacles and executed a forced landing into a marsh. During the landing, the airplane flipped over onto its back and sustained damage.
Examination Findings
After the airplane was recovered from the marsh, an FAA examiner inspected it. The examination revealed that the fuel selector valve had been set beyond the "right tank" detent. When tested in that position, the valve prevented the flow of fuel to the engine. Additionally, the inspector stated that the pilot told him he had previously experienced the engine ceasing to operate when the fuel selector valve was in the "right tank" position. The pilot had been rotating the selector beyond the detent for the "right tank" position and had experienced no problems since.
Maintenance History
The inspector noted that records showed the accident airplane had last received an annual inspection on May 10, 1997.