Incident Overview
A forced landing occurred after a complete loss of engine power during flight. The pilot reported that while cruising at 1,800 feet above ground level, the engine lost power approximately 10 seconds after switching fuel tanks. A simultaneous loss of fuel pressure was noted.
Post-Accident Findings
A subsequent engine run confirmed the engine was operational. During the test, investigators discovered that improper positioning of the fuel selector valve—specifically, failure to fully engage the valve within its detent—would cause a loss of power due to fuel starvation.
Terrain and Impact
The pilot described the surrounding area as rolling terrain covered with crops. During the forced landing, the airplane made contact with corn crops and a barbed wire fence, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
No Injuries Reported
No injuries to the pilot or any other individuals were reported. The pilot was the sole occupant and evacuated the aircraft without assistance.
Fuel Selector Valve as Key Issue
The investigation highlighted that the fuel selector valve must be properly positioned in its detent to ensure uninterrupted fuel flow. The pilot's action of switching tanks may have been performed incorrectly, leading to the power loss. However, the exact positioning of the selector at the time of the incident could not be determined from the available evidence.