Accident Overview
The flight experienced an in-flight loss of power, leading to a forced landing in a wet grass and muddy field. During the landing roll, the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
In-Flight Events
Prior to the flight, the pilot performed a walkaround and observed that the airplane's fuel tanks were full. During the flight, the pilot noticed that the left fuel gauge indicated approximately half full, while the right gauge indicated less than half. He decided to divert the flight. The engine subsequently began losing power, and the pilot attempted an emergency landing.
Fuel Cap Findings
After the accident, the right fuel cap was found on top of the right wing, out of its filler neck area, and in the locked position. Examination of the cap revealed that the self-locking nut on the bottom could be turned by hand, and the cap's dome was not seated on the bolt and could be moved by hand.
Preflight and Refueling
A lineman had parked and fueled the airplane with the owner before the accident. The lineman reported that the right wing fuel cap was not engaged in its filler neck area, was held on by its chain, and was found in the locked position on top of the wing. The lineman also observed a blue trail approximately 8 to 10 inches wide down the back of the right wing. He stated that he told the owner about the cap and then re-installed the right cap in its filler neck area.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that if he had been notified of the fuel cap malfunction, the accident could have been prevented.