Incident Summary
A pilot performing flight maneuvers between 500 and 1100 feet above ground level experienced an engine sputter. The fuel selector was positioned on the left main tank. After switching to the right main tank without activating the boost pump, the pilot attempted but failed to restart the engine. A forced landing was made in a bean field, resulting in structural damage including a wrinkled fuselage, bent bulkheads, and damage to the lower centerline spar carry-through members.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that during the practice maneuvers, the engine began to sputter. He moved the fuel selector from the left main tank to the right main tank but did not turn on the boost pump. Subsequent restart attempts were unsuccessful, leading to the forced landing.
Post-Accident Inspection
An FAA inspector examined the aircraft and found the left main fuel tank empty. The right main tank contained approximately half its capacity, about 11 gallons. The auxiliary selector position, which feeds from two 10-gallon tanks, held approximately 15 gallons of fuel.
Aircraft Procedures
The Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) specifies that the engine air start procedure includes turning the auxiliary fuel pump on until power is regained, then off. A published temporary change to the POH mandates a placard on the fuel selector warning of a no-flow condition that exists between the fuel selector detents.