Synopsis
A pilot flying from Cox Sky Ranch to Stone Mountain, Georgia, diverted to Monroe, Georgia, after being unable to receive Norcross VOR. Believing a navigation radio problem existed, the pilot landed at Monroe. Before landing, the right fuel gauge indicated nearly empty and the left gauge showed almost three-quarters full; the fuel selector was set to BOTH. After approximately 30 minutes on the ground, the pilot departed for Stone Mountain without visually checking the fuel levels. About four to five minutes into the flight, the engine lost power.
Forced Landing and Roll
During the forced landing roll, the nose gear struck an earth ridge and collapsed. The aircraft came to rest inverted. Examination revealed the left fuel tank was almost full of fuel. The left tank overboard vent pipe, which connects between the tanks, was obstructed by an earth-like substance. When the obstruction was cleared, a stream of fuel flowed from the pipe.
Findings
The right fuel gauge reading was low, but the left tank contained ample fuel. The vent pipe obstruction likely prevented proper fuel flow, leading to engine power loss. The pilot did not conduct a visual fuel check after landing at Monroe, and the fuel selector was on BOTH throughout the flight.