Flight and Incident
The cross-country flight departed in dark night instrument meteorological conditions. During the flight, the crew encountered strong headwinds and carburetor icing. The flying pilot applied carburetor heat, reduced engine RPM, and readjusted the mixture in an attempt to increase endurance.
Electrical and Fuel Issues
When the flight was approximately 35 miles from its destination, the low voltage light illuminated and the ammeter read zero. The crew diverted to an airport with a precision approach. However, the engine began to lose power. The non-flying pilot switched the fuel selector from the left fuel tank, which the flight crew assumed to be empty, to the right fuel tank, which contained an estimated 10 gallons of fuel. Despite this action, engine power did not change.
Forced Landing and Investigation
The pilots requested vectors to the nearest airport. When the airplane broke out of the clouds at 800 feet above ground level, they could not reach the airport. The flying pilot set up for a landing in a field. During the landing roll, the airplane impacted a fence post. Examination of the airplane at the accident site by an FAA inspector revealed that the left fuel tank contained residual fuel only and the right fuel tank was compromised by impact damage. The engine was test run following the accident, and no anomalies were noted with either the engine or the alternator.