Accident Summary
The airplane experienced a loss of engine power while the pilot was retarding the throttle to begin a descent into an airport for refueling, after approximately 2 hours 40 minutes of flight. The engine immediately lost power and exhibited roughness and vibration. The pilot activated the electric fuel boost pump and switched fuel tanks, but the engine continued to sputter. Unable to reach a nearby airfield, the pilot set up for a landing on a road. During the descent, the airplane collided with power lines, causing the rudder to separate from the aircraft. The pilot successfully landed on the road, but the airplane collided with multiple obstacles during the ground roll.
Pilot Actions
Upon sensing the loss of power, the pilot turned on the electric fuel boost pump and switched fuel tanks in an attempt to restore engine operation. Despite these actions, the engine continued to sputter. The pilot then identified a road as a suitable landing area and maneuvered the airplane toward it. The collision with power lines occurred before reaching the road.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the fuel selector valve was positioned to the right tank. The left fuel tank did not sustain mechanical damage, but the right tank was ruptured. The left tank contained approximately 1 quart of fuel. The gascolator held about 50 milliliters of fuel, and the carburetor contained about 75 milliliters of fuel.
Engine Test Run
Fuel was added to the airplane, and the engine was test run using the airplane's systems. The engine started immediately, operated without any leaks, and did not exhibit hesitation, sputtering, or backfiring.