Accident Summary
During the second flight of an experimental homebuilt airplane, the engine lost power while the aircraft was on approach for landing. The pilot executed a forced landing, during which the airplane collided with a ravine during the landing roll. The landing gear subsequently collapsed.
Fuel System Details
Both the first and second flights of the accident aircraft were operated with a total fuel load of 10 gallons, distributed as 5 gallons in each wing fuel tank. On approach, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power while the fuel selector was positioned to the left fuel tank. He switched the fuel selector to the right tank but was unable to restart the engine.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that the fuel vapor return line, which was plumbed into the right fuel tank, had a return rate greater than advertised. He had understood the expected vapor return rate to be 20 to 30 percent of the fuel consumption rate.