The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, during the return to the departure airport following a local flight, the airplane had a total loss of engine power. He force landed the airplane on a dirt road, but the propeller struck the ground and airplane nosed over.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right-wing lift strut.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The Federal Aviation Administration Inspector confirmed that only one gallon of fuel was drained and recovered from both wing tanks.

The pilot did not submit the National Transportation Safety Board Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report Form 6120.1.