Circumstances
An aircraft suffered a total loss of engine power approximately 7 miles short of its destination, necessitating a forced landing in a schoolyard. The flight had been in progress for about 4.4 hours since the last refueling.
Pilot Actions
During the flight, the pilot reported using approximately 60 percent power at 7,500 feet MSL, which corresponded to a fuel flow of about 7 gallons per hour. The pilot stated that he leaned the fuel mixture until engine RPM dropped and then enriched it until the previous RPM setting was restored. When the power loss occurred, the pilot said he did not operate the carburetor heat.
Aircraft Examination
Post-incident examination of the aircraft revealed less than a gallon of fuel remaining aboard. The carburetor heat was found in the ON position, contrary to the pilot's report of not using it during the power loss.
Pilot Experience
This flight was the pilot's first in the specific model/series of aircraft, following a 0.4-hour checkout.