Incident Overview
A pilot flying a cross-country flight reported an uneventful journey until the downwind leg of the destination airport's traffic pattern. At that point, the pilot switched the fuel selector from the right tank to the left tank and activated the boost pump. While on short final approach, approximately 75 feet above ground level, the engine began losing power. The airplane subsequently impacted terrain about 600 feet short of the runway and came to rest upright.
Pilot Actions
Upon the engine power loss, the pilot advanced all controls—mixture, propeller, and throttle—to the full forward position. The engine rpm initially increased but then quickly decreased. The pilot then turned off the master switch and walked to the fixed-based operator to seek assistance. After returning to the airplane, the pilot shut off the ignition and removed the keys and headset. The pilot stated that the fuel selector was not touched after the initial switch.
Wreckage Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and found damage to the wings, landing gear, and stabilator. The inspection revealed that despite adequate fuel remaining in both fuel tanks, the airplane's fuel selector was in the "off" position. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane.