Accident Overview
The flight began after the pilot topped off with 72 gallons of fuel. After 1.25 hours of flight, the pilot made an intermediate stop where no fuel was acquired. Departing at 1150 hours, the fuel gauges indicated slightly more than half full.
Engine Power Loss
During the descent to the final destination, power was lost on the left engine. The pilot was required to hand pump the landing gear and flaps down, using up most of the runway during this process, and executed a single-engine go-around.
Go-Around and Forced Landing
After the go-around, the pilot manually began hand pumping the gear and flaps up but was unable to establish a positive climb. To avoid power lines, the pilot executed an intentional forced landing. At 1335 hours, during the forced landing, the aircraft impacted several fence posts.
Post-Crash Examination
A post-crash examination of the aircraft by a mechanic revealed no fuel in the fuel tanks and no odor of fuel in or around the aircraft. The pilot indicated that it had been a while since he had flown this type of aircraft.