At approximately 1818 Eastern time, the airplane sustained substantial damage during a forced landing following a total loss of engine power. The private pilot and passenger were not injured. Visual conditions prevailed.
While in cruise flight at 8500 feet msl, the pilot elected to land to obtain more fuel. At this point, the airplane’s left fuel tank gauge indicated about one-third full, and the right fuel tank gauge indicated about one-quarter full. The pilot switched the fuel selector from the right tank to the left and initiated a descent by reducing engine power. On an approximate one-mile final approach, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine and subsequently conducted a forced landing to a road. During the landing, the airplane’s right wing contacted a fire hydrant, resulting in substantial damage. Post-accident examination revealed the left fuel tank contained approximately 14 gallons of fuel and the right one had approximately nine.
