What happened
Prior to departure, the pilot experienced difficulty starting the engine, requiring approximately five primes despite the engine being warm. While operating in cruise flight at 3,000 feet, the engine suddenly ceased operating. The pilot noted a decrease in airspeed and observed the propeller windmilling. After verifying that fuel was being drawn from the right tank, the pilot activated the boost pump and primed the engine, which restored operation. At that time, the left tank contained approximately 4 to 5 gallons of fuel, while the right tank contained more.
As the aircraft was halfway between the departure and destination points, the pilot elected to continue the flight. Approximately 20 minutes later, while descending to 1,700 feet, the engine ceased operating for a second time. An attempt to restart the engine was unsuccessful, leading the pilot to execute a forced landing in a cotton field. The landing resulted in damage to the right wing and the right main gear. There were no injuries reported.
The investigation
Post-accident examinations of the Cessna aircraft were conducted by an FAA inspector and a licensed mechanic. These inspections revealed 16 gallons of fuel remaining in the right tank and 5 gallons in the left tank. Investigators also discovered debris located within both the carburetor and the fuel boost pump screen.
Findings
An FAA inspector noted that during the annual inspection in March 2002, the fuel filter had been found to be partially blocked. Additionally, during an inspection in July 2002, the fuel filter drain required cleaning due to a blocked drain hose.