Accident Sequence
Approximately one hour and forty-five minutes into the flight, the pilot initiated an enroute descent from 4,500 feet to 2,500 feet. During the descent, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine several times, but all attempts failed. The pilot then selected an open field for an emergency landing. The airplane flipped over following touchdown.
Fuel System Examination
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that approximately 13 gallons of fuel were recovered from the right fuel tank, while no fuel was recovered from the left fuel tank. According to the Pilot Operating Handbook (POH), the fuel selector has only two positions: on and off. The POH also indicates that the fuel system includes two in-line check valves designed to prevent fuel movement between tanks.
Check Valve Condition
Both check valves were removed from the fuel system for examination. The right check valve was found to be blocked. The operator reported having experienced check valve failure on several occasions in other Beech 77 type airplanes.