Preflight Inspection
The first pilot, who was the pilot-in-command, and his father, the second pilot, conducted a shared preflight inspection of the airplane in preparation for touch-and-go landings. During the inspection, the second pilot visually checked both fuel tanks and observed that the left tank was low. He reported mentioning this to the first pilot, but the first pilot did not 'carefully note' the information.
Fuel Selection and Gauge Malfunction
For the flight, the first pilot selected the left fuel tank. The selection was based on the left fuel quantity gauge, which was erroneously indicating a full tank. The gauge's needle was later found to be captured between a deformed face plate and a sticky substance beneath the glass; the source of the deformation and substance could not be determined.
Flight and Engine Power Loss
The flight proceeded with touch-and-go landings. During the third touch-and-go takeoff, the engine was starved of fuel and suddenly lost all power at an altitude of about 300 feet above the ground.
Forced Landing
The second pilot, who was also a certified flight instructor (CFI), immediately took control of the airplane. He banked the airplane to the right to avoid trees and executed a forced landing into an open corn field. During the landing, the right wing struck the ground and the airplane nosed over.
Post-Accident Examination
No preimpact mechanical deficiencies were found with the engine. Examination of the left cockpit fuel quantity gauge revealed that the needle was captured between a deformed face plate and a sticky substance beneath the glass. The source of the deformation and the substance could not be determined.