Accident Overview
A single-engine airplane sustained substantial damage during an off-airport forced landing after the engine lost power during climb. The pilot reported that while climbing shortly after takeoff, he switched from the left fuel tank to the right fuel tank. Approximately three minutes later, the engine lost power. The pilot then switched back to the left fuel tank, checked the magnetos, and turned on the carburetor heat, but was unable to restore engine power.
Forced Landing and Impact
The pilot turned back toward the airport in an attempt to land. The airplane touched down in soft terrain about 300 feet short of the approach end of the runway. According to the airport manager, the airplane bounced, weathervaned, and landed sideways. The right main landing gear collapsed, and the nose gear buckled. As the airplane slid, the right wing and propeller contacted the ground.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident inspection of the airplane and engine revealed no mechanical failure or malfunction that would have resulted in the loss of engine power. The reason for the power loss remains unidentified based on the inspection findings.