Accident Overview
A pilot experienced an engine failure and ditched the aircraft into Lake Michigan. During a telephone interview, the pilot provided details about the events leading up to the accident.
Fuel System Observations
The pilot stated that during the flight, he noticed the fuel quantity indicated by the fuel gauge was decreasing even though the fuel selector was positioned for the left tank. He decided not to change fuel settings since the engine was still running. While continuing to monitor the fuel status, he observed that the right fuel tank quantity continued to decrease and the left fuel tank quantity had actually risen.
Engine Failure and Ditching
The pilot continued monitoring the fuel status until the right fuel gauge read empty, at which time the engine quit. He tried several times to restart the engine with differing fuel selector settings but was unable to get the engine to run for more than a few seconds. The aircraft was ultimately ditched into Lake Michigan.
Fuel Records
The pilot stated that he had filled the fuel tanks prior to departure. Fuel receipts from the departure airport indicate that the aircraft was fueled with 19.6 gallons of fuel.
Aircraft Recovery
As of December 27, 1999, the aircraft has not been recovered from Lake Michigan.