Incident Overview
A pilot reported that while in communication with approach control, the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot switched fuel tanks, and the engine restarted without hesitation. The pilot informed approach control about the fuel situation, and the controller noted that the aircraft was directly over the airport at that time. However, the pilot stated that the airport was not visible to him.
Second Engine Failure and Forced Landing
Shortly thereafter, the engine failed a second time, prompting the pilot to execute a forced landing into a field. The pilot recalled using three notches of flaps, maintaining a wings-level attitude, and being aware of trees at the beginning of the chosen field. The aircraft came to rest on some railroad tracks following the landing.
Post-Accident Investigation
Examination after the accident revealed that the pilot had been flying for at least 4 hours and 4 minutes prior to the first engine failure. The fuel tanks were drained, yielding approximately 1.5 pints of fuel from each wing tank. No evidence of a fuel spill was found at the accident site, and the fuel tanks were not damaged during the forced landing. Inspections of the aircraft, flight controls, and engine disclosed no other anomalies or malfunctions.