Preflight and Departure
The pilot conducted a preflight inspection, measuring fuel in each wing tank with a stick. He found no fuel in the left tank and 5.5 gallons of usable fuel in the right tank. Assessing that this quantity was sufficient for the planned 19-minute flight, the pilot completed an engine run-up and executed a normal takeoff.
En Route and Air Traffic Communication
After clearing the mountains west of the departure airport, the pilot contacted the destination airport's control tower, requesting a special visual flight rules (SVFR) clearance for runway 18. The controller instructed the pilot to remain outside the Class D airspace and informed him of an expected 10-minute landing delay. The pilot complied by maneuvering in right circles over a nearby landmark.
Loss of Engine Power
According to the pilot, while circling, the fuel in the right tank lost contact with the fuel pickup port, causing the engine to lose power. Unable to reach the airport from his position, the pilot selected a field approximately 5 miles north of the airport for a forced landing.
Forced Landing and Nose Over
The pilot successfully landed in the field. However, upon touchdown, the nose wheel dug into the soil, causing the airplane to nose over.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the airplane at the scene. The inspection revealed no fuel in the left fuel tank and no more than 6 gallons of fuel in the right fuel tank.