Accident Overview
A pilot reported that during preflight, he inspected the fuel cap and visually checked the left fuel tank, determining by sound and sight that fuel was present but low. He elected not to add fuel until a fuel cap test could be conducted. During engine run-up, the pilot positioned the fuel selector lever to the right tank for takeoff, aware that the left tank had less fuel.
Events During Flight
At approximately 800 feet above ground level, the pilot felt an engine hesitation followed by a total engine failure. He initiated a forced landing into a nearby corn field.
Post-Crash Investigation
Examination of the aircraft revealed 31 gallons of fuel in the right tank and zero gallons in the left tank. No evidence of a post-crash fuel leak or spill was found. The fuel injection system's spider valve was devoid of fuel. Bench testing confirmed the engine would start and run if supplied with fuel. The Beech V35B was placarded requiring at least 13 gallons of fuel in both tanks before flight.