What happened
The aircraft was operating in conditions that included a nearby fog bank. The pilot initiated a 180-degree turn to avoid the weather system. Immediately following the completion of this maneuver, the engine ceased operation, resulting in a total loss of power. Consequently, the pilot executed a forced landing onto muskeg terrain.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed significant fuel imbalance between the tanks. The left fuel tank contained 7 1/2 gallons of fuel, while the right tank held only 1 1/2 quarts. A post-accident test run of the engine was conducted, and it operated normally, indicating that the mechanical components were functional at the time of inspection.
Findings
The sequence of events suggests that the abrupt change in aircraft attitude during the turn disrupted the fuel supply to the engine. The fuel flow interruption caused by the 180-degree turn is identified as the primary factor leading to the power loss. The muskeg landing was a direct result of this mechanical failure. No other mechanical anomalies were detected during the subsequent testing.