Forced Landing After Engine Power Loss (N758YR)

Preflight and Flight Operations An instructor conducted a preflight inspection and measured the fuel quantity using a calibrated stick, finding 8 gallons in one tank and 7 gallons in the other. After takeoff, the aircraft cruised at 2,700 feet for approximately one hour before the instructor reported a loss of all or most engine power. The engine backfired four or five times, and attempts to restore power were unsuccessful. The instructor executed a forced landing in a parking lot, during which the aircraft's left wing struck a light pole. ## Post-Accident Examination A Federal Aviation Administration Inspector examined the aircraft and found that one wing fuel tank was ripped open. Neither wing fuel tank contained fuel, and there was no odor of fuel on the ground. Refueling records indicated that the aircraft had been refueled to a total of 20 gallons and was flown for approximately 8/10 hours before the accident flight. The engine's average fuel consumption was 6.8 gallons per hour. ## Contributing Factors According to a carburetor icing probability chart, the conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to serious icing at cruise power.