Accident Sequence
While on a 5-mile final approach to Camarillo Airport (CMA), the pilot reported a total loss of engine power. The engine gauges showed no abnormal indications. The pilot believed that all usable fuel in the two right wing tanks had been exhausted. He switched the fuel selector to the left wing tank, but the engine did not regain power. After verifying that the magneto switches were on, the pilot noted that the aircraft had no electric starter. The propeller stopped rotating when the airplane was about 500 feet above ground. The pilot released the banner being towed and executed a forced landing in a rough field at approximately 1442. During the landing rollout, the airplane nosed over, resulting in structural damage to the left wing.
Aircraft Fuel System
The aircraft was equipped with three fuel tanks: two in the right wing and one in the left wing. Each tank held 18 gallons, for a total capacity of 54 gallons. During banner towing operations, the fuel burn rate was about 8 gallons per hour. All tanks were filled to capacity before the pilot's takeoff at 1040. At the nominal engine power setting typically used by the pilot, the airplane's endurance was approximately 6 hours.
Pilot's Assessment
In a completed "Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident" report, the pilot indicated that the accident could have been prevented if he had switched to the left fuel tank before the right tanks ran out of fuel.