Accident Summary
Approximately 7 minutes after reaching cruise altitude, the pilot switched the fuel selector from the right to the left fuel tank. The engine continued running for about 7 more minutes and then stopped. When the pilot switched back to the original (right) tank, the engine surged momentarily then stopped. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful.
The pilot executed a forced landing in a muddy field. The airplane touched down on its main landing gear and nosed over shortly after touchdown. Post-accident examination revealed that the main landing gear tires were caked with mud, while the tailwheel had no mud on it.
Investigation Findings
An on-scene investigation confirmed continuity of engine controls. Fuel quantity measurements showed approximately 7 gallons of fuel in the left tank and about 1 quart in the right tank. The fuel tank cap gaskets were undamaged. Traces of dirty water were found in the carburetor float bowl and fuel strainer. The ignition system was tested and met the manufacturer's operating specifications.
Additional Information
The FAA's Flight Training Handbook states that a soft field landing in a tailwheel airplane should be performed with the tailwheel touching down with or just before the main landing gear tires.