Incident Overview
A pilot conducting a flight experienced an engine failure and was forced to land in Lake Lanier after fuel starvation. The sequence of events began earlier when the pilot made a precautionary landing due to en route weather conditions. After weather improved, the pilot obtained a briefing for the intended destination. The briefing indicated thunderstorms in the area but visual flight rules (VFR) conditions.
Fuel Transfer Issue
Following departure from the en route stop, the pilot attempted to transfer fuel from an auxiliary tank. The pilot turned the fuel pump on but did not open the transfer valve. This resulted in the fuel not being moved to the main tank.
Diversion and Engine Failure
Upon arriving over the destination airport, the pilot encountered heavy rain and elected to divert to an alternate airport. En route to the alternate, the engine lost power due to fuel starvation. The pilot then executed a forced landing in Lake Lanier.
Post-Accident Findings
Examination after the accident revealed that 20 gallons of fuel remained in the auxiliary tank. The fuel was not transferred due to the closed valve.