Flight Sequence
A pilot operating under instrument flight rules at night in visual meteorological conditions reported noticing a change in engine performance. After switching fuel tanks and adjusting the power and propeller levers, the pilot turned the aircraft toward an airport beacon and continued the flight under partial power. During final approach to the intended runway, the engine lost all power, and the pilot performed a forced landing. The aircraft came to rest approximately one-quarter mile short of the landing runway.
Fuel System Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the fuel system revealed that three of four fuel tanks were ruptured. However, approximately 8 gallons of fuel remained contained in an auxiliary tip tank. No fuel was found at the fuel injector, the engine-driven fuel pump, the electric-driven fuel pump, or the outlet of the fuel selector valve. The engine and airframe fuel supply components were subsequently tested and found to be operational.
Engine Condition
The spark plugs were removed and inspected; the electrodes appeared white with no trace of gray deposits. The engine was started and operated in a test cell after the accident. A detailed examination of the engine disclosed that the engine-driven fuel pump was leaking. Additionally, the left magneto was not configured to factory specifications.
Conclusion
The investigation did not determine a probable cause for the loss of engine power, but identified a leaking engine-driven fuel pump and a left magneto configuration anomaly during the post-accident examination.