Accident Overview
A private pilot flying a Cessna 210 experienced an engine power loss during a go-around, leading to a forced landing attempt. The aircraft struck a fence and then the ground.
Flight Details
The pilot had landed at an airport 45 miles short of his destination to refuel, but no fuel was available. He decided to continue to his destination, estimating 12 gallons of fuel on board. En route, he ran the right fuel tank dry and switched to the left tank. To conserve fuel, he planned a no-flap landing.
Approach and Go-Around
On final approach, the pilot found himself high and fast and executed a sideslip with the left wing low. Unable to land safely, he initiated a go-around. During the go-around, the engine did not respond. He attempted a turn back to the airport for a forced landing.
Impact
While turning, the aircraft struck a fence and then collided with the ground. The engine power loss occurred about 35 minutes into the flight.
Pilot's Manual Guidance
The Cessna 210 pilot's manual states that prolonged sideslips can result in unporting of the fuel system, leading to fuel starvation. It notes that up to 10 gallons of fuel may be unusable when level flight is not maintained.