Preflight and Departure
The private pilot reported that before departure, he performed a preflight check. He visually inspected the fuel tanks and estimated 15 gallons in the left tank and about 12 gallons in the right tank. The fuel quantity gauges indicated the right side was about half full and the left side between half and two-thirds full. The pilot checked the fuel selector and believed it was positioned to the left fuel tank. The flight instructor then joined the pilot, and the flight departed.
Flight and Landing Attempt
The flight proceeded to another airport. Prior to landing there, the pilot confirmed the fuel selector was on the left side, but in reality, it was on the right side. After landing, the flight departed to return to the originating airport. Upon arrival, the pilot set up for landing on runway 15 but maneuvered to runway 33 due to traffic. The pilot again thought the fuel selector was on the left side (the fuller tank). He entered the pattern and prepared for landing.
Engine Power Loss and Forced Landing
While turning to base leg, the pilot noted he was a little low and applied power, but the engine did not respond. The flight instructor told the pilot to turn toward the airport and switch fuel tanks. The fuel selector is located on the floor on the pilot's side (left side). The pilot tried to turn the selector but could not get a good grip on the handle due to its position. The instructor took control and, realizing they would not make the runway, began a gentle right turn toward a field. As the aircraft descended, it collided with trees.
Post-Accident Examination
During wreckage recovery, both fuel cells were found intact. The left tank contained about 8 gallons of fuel, and the right tank was empty. The fuel selector was found positioned to the right tank. After recovery, the engine and airframe were examined. Fuel was added to both tanks, and all lines and fittings were checked for leaks; none were found. An attempt to move the selector to the left tank position revealed that it could only be moved by lifting the handle and applying very forceful hand manipulation. Further inspection showed that smooth transfer of the fuel selector valve was impeded by round head Phillips retaining screws holding the fuel selector plate in place, instead of flush head screws. The fuel selector handle has a long rectangular shape with a short opposite side with a pointer; the short pointed end indicates the selected tank. After replacing the damaged propeller with a new one, the engine started immediately and ran through a total RPM cycle. The fuel selector was moved from right to left with no engine interruption noted. Recent maintenance had replaced the fuel selector.