Incident Overview
Approximately 30 minutes after takeoff on a cross-country flight, the pilot of a single-engine airplane reported that the engine began sputtering. He promptly contacted an approach control facility and received guidance to the nearest airfield. However, before reaching the airfield, the engine lost all power, forcing the pilot to execute a landing in a farm field.
Wreckage Examination
Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed fuel stains along the lower fuselage, extending from the firewall aft. The stains originated at the fuel strainer. Upon inspection, the strainer bowl was found to have no safety wire installed.
Conclusion
The investigation documented the absence of safety wire on the fuel strainer bowl and the resulting fuel leakage. No other contributing factors were identified in the source material.