Flight and Maneuver
The pilot reduced throttle and initiated a descent to deviate around a cloud. After clearing the cloud, the pilot advanced the throttle to climb back to cruise altitude. However, engine power did not develop and gradually decreased. Despite the throttle advancement, power continued to diminish, and the pilot was unable to maintain altitude. A restart attempt was unsuccessful, leading to a forced landing in a field.
Fuel System Examination
An FAA inspector examined the airplane after the landing. The left wing fuel tank contained 12 gallons of fuel. The right wing fuel tank was compromised during the impact. The cockpit fuel selector placard was mounted upside-down, providing an incorrect reading to the pilot. The cockpit fuel selector was found in the OFF position; however, the placard installed at the time of the accident would have indicated that the selected fuel tank was the LEFT tank. The pilot did not recall the position of the cockpit fuel selector at the time of the loss of engine power.
Meteorological Information
The temperature and dew point at the time of the accident were conducive to the formation of serious induction icing at a glide power setting.
Cause Determination
The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.