Incident Details
While en route, the pilot observed a decrease in engine RPM. The fuel shut-off valve was verified open, and fuel gauges indicated half full in the right tank and quarter full in the left tank. The carburetor heat was off, and the mixture was set to full rich. Shortly thereafter, the engine ceased operating.
The pilot made three attempts to restart the engine. During the third attempt, the engine briefly started and then stopped again. Subsequently, the pilot executed an off-airport landing in a field, during which the airplane nosed over.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have prevented normal operation. He stated that he had filled the fuel tank "to the top," totaling 22.5 gallons, prior to departure and had flown for 3.7 hours. According to the 1969 Cessna 150 owner's manual, the airplane's maximum range was 4.1 hours with no reserve at 75% power at 7,000 feet.
The pilot also noted that he did not consult the emergency checklist, as it was stored in the glovebox.
Post-Accident Examination
Approximately five days after the accident, FAA inspectors drained the fuel tanks. No evidence of fuel leakage was found around the fuel caps or on the ground. Approximately 8 to 12 ounces of fuel were drained from the left wing tank, and about three-quarters of a gallon from the right wing tank. The engine exhibited proper continuity, and the magnetos were operational. The engine was not run due to a fractured intake manifold just above the carburetor base flange; this damage was consistent with impact forces.