The Incident
During the takeoff climb, the engine lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing in an open field. At an altitude of approximately 50-100 feet above ground level, with no remaining runway, the engine began to run rough. Shortly thereafter, the engine lost all power.
Pilot Actions
The pilot stated that he had already raised the landing gear before the engine began to run rough. He then lowered the landing gear and made the forced landing in the field. The landing gear was only partially extended when the airplane touched down.
Post-Accident Examination
Post-accident examination revealed that air was leaking into the fuel system through worn seals in the fuel selector valve and gascolator.
Applicable Service Bulletin
The Type Certificate Holder for the airplane issued Service Bulletin (SB) 101A, which recommended inspection of the fuel selector valve for leaks that allow air intrusion. An annual inspection had taken place 4 hours prior to the accident. Inspection of the airframe logbooks revealed no record of SB 101A having been performed.