Event Description
A Mooney M20E, powered by a Lycoming IO-360-A1A engine, was descending through 2,000 feet when the engine stopped operating. The pilot attempted to restore power by switching fuel tanks and activating the fuel boost pump, but these actions were unsuccessful. A forced landing was executed to rough and uneven terrain in an agricultural field.
Post-Crash Examination
On-site examination of the aircraft revealed the presence of fuel in both fuel tanks. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector assigned to the investigation conducted a post-crash examination and test run of the engine. During this evaluation, the fuel control servo appeared to be blocked for an unknown reason. The inspector reported that fuel pressure entering the fuel servo was considerably or extremely low at the outlet and would not sustain engine operation.
Engine Tests
The fuel servo was removed from the aircraft and subjected to a flow check, which did not reveal any discrepancies. Subsequently, the servo was reinstalled in the aircraft. The FAA inspector observed a second test run of the engine, during which the engine operated successfully with no discrepancies noted. The cause of the initial blockage remained unidentified.