NTSB Factual Report

The airplane encountered soft terrain during an off airport forced landing following a loss of engine power. The pilot reported that while climbing, shortly after takeoff, he switched from the left fuel tank to the right fuel tank. He stated that approximately three minutes later the engine lost power. The pilot stated he switched back to the left fuel tank, checked the magnetos, and switched on the carburetor heat, but was unable to regain power. He reported he made a turn back toward the airport to land. The airplane touched down in soft terrain approximately 300 feet short of the approach end of runway. The airport manager stated the airplane bounced, weathervaned and landed sideways which resulted in the right main gear collapsing and the nose gear buckling. The right wing and propeller contacted the ground as the airplane slid. Post accident inspection of the airplane and engine by inspectors from the Federal Aviation Administration, Grand Rapids, Michigan Flight Standards District Office failed to reveal any mechanical failure/malfunction which would have resulted in the loss of engine power.

NTSB Probable Cause

A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor was the soft terrain encountered during the lanidng.