Incident Overview
The aircraft experienced a loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot prepared for a forced landing in a field, but the engine regained power as he was about to land. He aborted the landing attempt and tried to return to the airstrip. However, the engine subsequently lost power again.
Glide and Landing
During the second power loss, the pilot stretched the glide to avoid impacting trees. This resulted in insufficient airspeed to flare the aircraft before landing in another field.
Fuel System Findings
The pilot reported that after the initial power loss, the left fuel tank gauge indicated 'empty' and the right tank gauge indicated '1/4' full. The fuel selector was in the 'BOTH' position at the time. Post-crash examination of the aircraft by another pilot revealed that the left fuel tank was empty and the right tank contained approximately one pint of fuel.