Aircraft Engine Power Loss During Final Approach (N5LT)

Incident Overview and Pilot Report During a flight intended to inspect a construction site and test landing gear maintenance, the aircraft lost engine power on final approach. The nose landing gear struck a chain-link fence approximately 1,000 feet from the runway's approach end. The pilot stated he performed a preflight inspection, including a check for water contamination, and reported 18 gallons of fuel in the left tank and 12 gallons in the right tank, though he did not specify how these amounts were determined. During the hour-long flight, the pilot maneuvered around the construction site at 6,500 feet MSL, switched to the right fuel tank, and cycled the landing gear multiple times. He then completed two touch-and-go landings at the airport. On the third approach, a wind shift changed the runway direction. After takeoff, the pilot climbed to 5,500 feet MSL to set up for a full-stop landing. He slowed to follow a slower aircraft ahead and performed the before-landing checklist, which included switching to the fullest fuel tank (right). As the slower aircraft turned base, the pilot extended his pattern to maintain spacing. On final approach at 80 knots, he added 10 degrees of flaps (totaling 20 degrees) and reduced power. The aircraft began sinking, and the pilot attempted to apply power to maintain the glide path. When the engine failed to respond, he pulled back on the yoke to arrest the descent and switched to the left fuel tank. Advancing the throttle fully produced no response, so he switched back to the right tank. He then set up for an off-airport forced landing. During the flare, the nose gear struck the fence.