What happened
After approximately one hour of flight, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot attempted several recovery procedures, first applying carburetor heat and then activating the auxiliary fuel pump, but these actions failed to restore power. The pilot then transitioned the fuel selector from the left main fuel tank to the left auxiliary tank and waited for one minute; however, power remained lost. A subsequent switch to the right auxiliary fuel tank also failed to resolve the issue. In a final attempt to restore engine power, the pilot used the primer to pump fuel into the engine.
Unable to regain power, the pilot committed to an off-field landing in an alfalfa field. After successfully clearing power lines, the pilot extended full flaps but chose not to extend the landing gear. The aircraft subsequently performed a gear-up landing.
The investigation
Federal Aviation Administration inspectors conducted an inspection at the accident scene. They discovered that both main fuel tanks were completely dry, while both auxiliary fuel tanks remained full. When an inspector placed the fuel selector on the auxiliary tank position and activated the boost pump, the fuel system pressurized and operated normally after several seconds. The investigation found no mechanical problems with the airplane or its fuel system.