Flight Details
A pilot departed on a cross-country flight with 49 gallons of fuel aboard the airplane. Approximately three hours later, as the pilot approached the destination airport, the engine began to fluctuate, revving up and down three or four times before losing power completely.
Engine Failure
Suspecting a vapor lock or fuel blockage, the pilot attempted to resolve the issue by selecting each of the airplane's three fuel tanks and confirming that the mixture control was in the full rich position. Despite these efforts, engine power was not restored.
Forced Landing
Without engine power, the pilot elected to perform a forced landing at the destination airport. The approach was made downwind, and due to insufficient altitude, the airplane landed hard and diagonally across the runway. During the landing, the nose-gear collapsed and the right wing sustained substantial damage.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector examined the aircraft at the scene and observed blue stains on the underside of the fuselage. Additionally, the fuel caps were found to have duct tape applied. The inspector was unable to determine whether the airplane's fuel tanks contained any fuel. The reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.