Incident Overview
While in cruise flight, the private pilot experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot attempted an engine restart but was unable to restore power. Subsequently, the pilot elected to perform a forced landing to a plowed field.
Landing and Damage
Upon touchdown, the landing gear contacted ruts in the ground, resulting in a collapse of the landing gear.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane revealed that the housing encasing the fuel selector had been recently replaced with an incorrect housing. This incorrect housing impeded movement of the fuel selector to all fuel tanks.
Maintenance History
The pilot reported that post-maintenance test flights did not detect the incorrect installation.
Summary
The incident involved a total loss of engine power during cruise flight, followed by a forced landing to a plowed field. The landing gear collapsed after hitting ruts. Investigation found that an incorrectly installed fuel selector housing restricted fuel selector movement.