Incident Overview
During a three-hour and ten-minute flight, the pilot reported that fuel tanks were full prior to departure. Approximately one hour after takeoff, the pilot switched from the left fuel tank to the right. As the aircraft approached the destination, the pilot entered a left downwind for runway 03.
Approach Anomalies
Upon lowering the landing gear, a passenger alerted the pilot to liquid observed on the left wheel. The pilot noted that the aircraft was slightly high during final approach and elected to execute a go-around. While on the crosswind leg of the pattern, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power.
Outcome and Investigation
Following the power loss, the aircraft landed hard in a field. After evacuating the cabin, the pilot observed fuel leaking from the engine area. A subsequent on-scene examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed no visible signs of fuel in the left wing tank. Approximately six to eight ounces of fuel were drained from the right wing fuel tank. The investigation concluded that both the engine and airframe were free of anomalies.