Incident Details
During a flight, the pilot detected a faint odor of fuel and consequently opened the cabin vents to introduce fresh air. As the aircraft was approaching its destination airport for landing, the engine ceased producing power at an altitude of approximately 2,200 feet above ground level. The pilot selected an area for an emergency landing.
Pilot Actions
After ensuring clearance above trees in the chosen landing area, the pilot attempted to extend the landing gear using the normal electric extension system but was unsuccessful. He then began employing the emergency gear extension system, but insufficient time remained to complete the procedure. Consequently, the pilot executed a landing with the landing gear retracted (wheels-up landing).
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft and engine revealed no evidence of failure or malfunction prior to impact. According to the pilot, the cockpit instruments indicated that fuel was still present when the engine lost power. However, after the accident, no usable fuel was found aboard the aircraft. The pilot stated that the aircraft had been 'topped off' with fuel before departure and estimated that 11.7 gallons or more should have remained upon arrival at the destination. The aircraft's total fuel capacity was 60 gallons when the tanks were filled to the top of the filler necks. It was reported that if the tanks had been filled only to the bottom of the filler necks, the fuel system would have contained approximately 10 gallons less than a full load.