Accident Narrative
The airplane sustained substantial damage when it struck a post during a forced landing to a field following a loss of engine power. The pilot maneuvered the airplane to a cornfield after being unable to restart the engine.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that prior to the accident flight, he requested the lineman to top off the fuel tanks. He visually checked the right fuel tank but did not check the left fuel tank. During the flight, the fuel selector was positioned on the left fuel tank. The pilot stated that the engine suddenly quit, and he could not get it restarted, leading to the forced landing.
Fuel Inspection
An inspection of the fuel tanks revealed that the left fuel tank was dry, while the right fuel tank was full.
Pilot's Comments
The pilot noted that his normal starting procedure requires the boost pump on, and the engine does not start without it. Additionally, after normal shutdown by pulling the mixture to the full lean position, the engine will not start in less than 15 seconds even after priming to normal boost pump pressures and with the boost pump on while cranking. He estimated that the entire event lasted 60 to 90 seconds, which he believed may not have allowed sufficient time for fuel flow to be re-established through completely dry fuel lines and pumps.
In the NTSB Form 6120.1/2 under Owner/Operator Safety Recommendation, the pilot stated: "Visually check all fuel tank levels on preflight. Do not assume flight line people followed your requests."