Accident Summary
A pilot reported that after performing two full-stop takeoffs and landings, the engine lost power while on base leg for the third landing. The pilot left the landing gear extended, checked the fuel selector but did not move it, and subsequently landed in a clearing. During the landing, the left wing struck a tree, rupturing the fuel tank. Emergency personnel at the accident site noted no smell of fuel.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination revealed fuel present in the right tank, but no evidence of fuel in the left tank. There was also no indication of a fuel spill on the ground. A small amount of fuel was found in the line from the engine-driven fuel pump to the fuel control unit, while no fuel was present in the line from the fuel control unit to the fuel injection manifold. Fuel system continuity was confirmed, and no evidence of blockage was observed. The fuel injection unit was tested and found to flow rich at most settings. No problems were identified with either the electric auxiliary fuel pump or the engine-driven fuel pump.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that he had departed with full fuel tanks and could not explain why there was no evidence of a fuel spill from the ruptured fuel tank.