Incident Overview
While cruising at 8,500 feet, the airplane's engine experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot responded by switching the fuel selector from the auxiliary tank to the left main fuel tank. During the transition, the engine suffered another loss of power.
Pilot Actions
The pilot attempted to restore engine power but was unsuccessful. He then shut down the engine and executed a forced landing on a road. During the landing roll, the airplane veered off the right side of the road and struck a post, resulting in substantial damage to both wings.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He stated that he had exhausted the entire fuel supply in the auxiliary fuel tank.
Examination Findings
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage. The inspection revealed that the auxiliary fuel tank did not contain any fuel. The right main fuel tank held 4.5 gallons, and the left main fuel tank contained 20 gallons.