What happened
Following the installation of a remanufactured engine, the pilot completed a 15-minute post-installation check flight in the traffic pattern. After a maintenance inspection revealed no discrepancies, the pilot initiated a local flight intended to break in the new engine. The flight included an engine run-up, departure, and a climb to 2,500 feet, where the aircraft remained for approximately one hour.
During the descent to traffic pattern altitude, the pilot reduced the throttle, at which point the engine lost power. The pilot attempted several restarts by applying full power, activating the electric fuel pump, and ensuring the mixture was set to full rich. Realizing the aircraft would not reach the runway, the pilot performed an off-airport landing. The substantial damage occurred during this maneuver.
The investigation
Upon arrival at the scene, an FAA inspector and mechanics conducted a visual inspection of the fuel system. They discovered no fuel in the right tank, while the left tank contained 11 gallons. The pilot reported that the fuel selector valve was set to the right tank position when the engine failure occurred.
Further examination of the fuel lines and fuel manifold revealed very little fuel present. While the gascolator was approximately half full upon removal, very little fuel was observed when draining the right header tank. The engine was inspected for propeller strike and subsequently operated on a test stand, where no discrepancies were found.