Incident Overview
During a preflight inspection for a local flight intended to perform three touch-and-go landings, the pilot removed the fuel filler caps and visually confirmed an apparent adequate fuel quantity in each tank. The pilot did not use a fuel dip stick to verify the exact fuel level.
The flight departed with the fuel selector positioned to the right-side fuel tank. After the second takeoff, at approximately 600 feet above ground level (agl) and just before turning crosswind, the engine surged once or twice, then experienced a total loss of power. The pilot checked the engine controls and initiated a left turn back toward the runway. At about 300 ft agl, the pilot switched the fuel selector to the left fuel tank. Seconds later, engine power was restored; however, the airplane had descended sufficiently that it collided with the tops of mesquite brush and subsequently the ground.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the right fuel tank was empty, while the left fuel tank contained approximately 10 gallons of fuel. No evidence of a fuel breach or leak was found. The fuselage sustained substantial damage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.