Flight and Power Loss
Following the return from a cross-country flight, the pilot was preparing to turn downwind for landing when the engine began to lose power. The pilot moved the fuel selector from the left main position to the right main position and operated the wobble pump several times, but the engine did not restart.
Emergency Actions
Subsequently, the pilot turned the fuel selector to the auxiliary position and again used the wobble pump. The pilot observed the fuel pressure gauge 'jiggle,' indicating some response, but the engine still failed to start. While attempting a restart, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft toward the airport and extended the landing gear. However, the pilot was unable to align the aircraft with the runway while maintaining sufficient altitude.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft touched down on unprepared terrain approximately 15 feet from the runway edge. Following the touchdown, the nose landing gear and the right main landing gear collapsed.
Post-Accident Findings
After the accident, investigators found fuel in all fuel tanks. However, when the fuel lines were disconnected from the electric fuel pump, no fuel was found in them. During an interview following the incident, the pilot stated that he did not use the electrically operated auxiliary pump while attempting to restart the engine during the emergency.