Accident Overview
An airplane experienced a loss of engine power while flying approximately six miles out over the water from the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The pilot reported that he was able to temporarily restore engine power while positioning the airplane for a forced landing. During the landing roll, the right main landing gear contacted a large rock, causing it to separate from the airplane. The airplane subsequently came to rest partway down an embankment.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that the carburetor had separated from the engine. No evidence of fuel leakage was found at the accident site. One and one-half ounces of fuel were drained from the fuel line located between the header fuel tank and the fuel selector. The fuel gauges indicated that the right tank was empty and the left tank contained approximately one-third of a tank of fuel. A visual inspection of both tanks showed them to be empty.
Aircraft and Maintenance History
The airplane had been modified with an extended range fuel system. It had not been flown since September 2000. The pilot reported that three days prior to the accident, he noticed fuel leaking from the carburetor. A mechanic and the airplane owner informed him that the float needle was likely stuck and advised him to tap the carburetor with a wrench. The pilot followed this advice, then flew the airplane around the traffic pattern. The airplane was then not flown until the day of the accident.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported that he did not visually check the fuel level prior to takeoff on the accident flight.