Event Sequence
The pilot reported conducting revenue sightseeing and instructional flights throughout the day. The accident flight was the 11th sightseeing ride of the day. During the pre-takeoff check, the pilot recorded on the manifest that he switched the fuel selector to the fullest fuel tank, but he failed to physically perform the action of switching the fuel selector.
During the takeoff initial climb at about 100 feet above ground level, the engine began to lose power. The landing gear was already retracted, and the pilot called for his passenger to extend the landing gear. The pilot then switched the fuel selector to the fullest fuel tank and pumped the manual fuel pump. As the aircraft landed hard on the remaining runway, the engine regained power, and the pilot continued the takeoff. The landing gear was left in the extended position.
Damage
It was soon determined that the right main landing gear torque link was damaged and the wheel was 90 degrees to the direction of flight. After discussing the situation with the ground crew, the pilot elected to land the aircraft with the landing gear retracted. During the gear-up landing, the aircraft slid off the runway surface into a muddy area, colliding with a runway taxi light and a raised manhole cover.