Accident Details
The pilot reported that during the preflight inspection, the fuel gauges indicated the left fuel tank was empty and the right fuel tank was full. A ladder was not available, so the pilot did not visually confirm the fuel levels in the tanks. The pilot estimated that after a previous flight, approximately 20 to 30 gallons of fuel remained, all in the left fuel tank. He stated, "I had run rt. [right] tank out of fuel and left remaining fuel in lt. [left] tank." The pilot planned to perform three takeoffs and landings.
Pilot Actions
After departing on the first takeoff, while turning left base for runway 32, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted an engine restart but was unsuccessful. He then executed a forced landing to a cornfield.
Post-Accident Inspection
Inspection of the airplane revealed that both fuel tanks were empty. When the battery was turned on, the left fuel gauge indicated full and the right fuel gauge indicated no fuel.