Accident Details
During cruise flight at 7,500 feet msl, the engine began to run rough. The pilot applied full rich mixture and pumped the throttle, which temporarily alleviated the problem before the engine lost total power. The pilot intended to land in a clear area but did not have enough altitude to clear an intervening ridge line.
Landing and Damage
The airplane was landed on the slope of a ridge. The firewall, propeller, and fuselage skin were damaged during the accident. After exiting the airplane, the pilot noted that the right fuel valve was closed. The pilot stated that during his preflight procedure he normally turns both fuel valves on to check the fuel drains and leaves them on until landing.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the airplane after the accident and reported that the right fuel tank was about 80 percent full of fuel, while the left fuel tank was less than 10 percent full. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane. The pilot also reported that if he had used a checklist, the accident could have been prevented.