What happened
During a visual flight rules (VFR) local flight under 14 CFR Part 91, a Cessna aircraft lost all engine power while cruising at approximately 2000 feet above ground level. Prior to the flight, the pilot had performed a preflight inspection which showed no signs of fuel contamination. At the time of the incident, the left wing fuel tank was approximately one-quarter full, while the right wing fuel tank was approximately three-quarters full. The pilot had the left wing tank selected for use.
Upon the loss of engine power, the pilot switched fuel tanks and turned the aircraft toward the only available open ground in the area. The engine failed to restart, necessitating an emergency landing in a marsh. During the landing, the aircraft touched down and rolled approximately 30 feet before performing a nosedive.
Findings
The pilot reported that the aircraft was equipped with "U" tube type fuel level indicators located in the wing roots. It is believed that trapped fuel within these indicators provided a false indication of the actual fuel quantity remaining in the tanks. The pilot concluded that the loss of engine power was caused by fuel starvation.
Safety message
The importance of proper timing in fuel management was noted as a factor in preventing such an occurrence.