Engine power loss during takeoff leads to forced landing

Casualties unknown • South St. Paul, MN, US

A private pilot experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing and substantial damage to the aircraft.

What happened

During a maintenance flight intended to break in a newly installed 300 horsepower Continental IO-550-D37 engine, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power. The flight was being conducted following an engine conversion that included the installation of a small 1.5-gallon fuel header tank. After the aircraft climbed to 500 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to return to the airport, but the aircraft impacted the terrain on the airport property during the forced landing. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.

Findings

The pilot failed to place the fuel selector in the "BOTH" position prior to takeoff.
The fuel selector had been left in the "OFF" position.
The engine failure was caused by the pilot's failure to properly configure the fuel selector.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to move the fuel selector from the off position to the both position prior to takeoff, resulting in a loss of engine power during the climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-05-19 Cessna 180J accident near South St. Paul, MN?

A private pilot experienced an engine failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in a forced landing and substantial damage to the aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-05-19 involved a Cessna 180J, registration GNQK, at South St. Paul, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to move the fuel selector from the off position to the both position prior to takeoff, resulting in a loss of engine power during the climb.

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