PA28 student and Flight Instructor reported they incorrectly set the fuel selector resulting in loss of power and fuel pressure during the takeoff roll. The pilots executed a rejected takeoff.
Synopsis
PA28 student and Flight Instructor reported they incorrectly set the fuel selector resulting in loss of power and fuel pressure during the takeoff roll. The pilots executed a rejected takeoff.
Narrative
On my first student flight; when doing the initial checklist; I attempted to set the fuel gauge to the right wing tank (fullest). I did not realize that the handle needed to be set on the direct line for selecting the tank; and instead set the handle in the section for the right fuel tank; but not on the line. This led to the fuel valve being half open but didn't show any issues in the pre-flight or run up; on the fuel pressure or power indicators. This changed however when the takeoff began in which there was a sudden loss in power and fuel pressure. We had not gotten off the ground; so we aborted the takeoff; and made a call to tower to taxi off. Once taxied off; my instructor realized it was an issue with the position of the fuel tank selector handle and adjusted it accordingly. We taxied back to the run up position and redid our run up checklist. The second takeoff went as normal and there was no issues the rest of the flight. Since this experience; I have been extra cautious that the fuel selector is in the correct position for maximum fuel flow; and keep a close eye on the fuel pressure throughout the flight.
Second reporter narrative
I was flying with a first-time student. At some point between the run-up checklist and taking off; the fuel selector was likely bumped past the divot by the student and I did not notice. We lined up on XXL and set power. At approximately 45 kts we noticed a large reduction in power and I immediately took controls and stopped the aircraft. I contacted tower and informed them of the aborted takeoff promptly and exited the runway. I requested taxi back to the run-up area because I looked at the fuel selector and realized that it was past the divot and was certain that was the reason for the reduction in power. We continued the flight as normal and landed with no further complications. As a result; I have added a step in my before takeoff flow where I verify the fuel selectors position to ensure this doesn't occur again. Additionally; I've realized that it would be more prudent to return to the ramp and re-evaluate the situation before taking off again. Taking the extra time to shutoff the engine and reassess what had caused the aborted takeoff will increase the likelihood that the same problem won't happen again.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.