While flying at 350 feet, during a final test line run for a
geo-survey operation, the pilot of a Cessna 210 transmitted a
distress message stating that the aircraft's engine had failed. The
pilot conducted a forced landing in a nearby field. He later
reported that he had selected an alternative fuel tank in an
unsuccessful attempt to restart the engine prior to conducting the
forced landing.
In consultation with BASI, an assessment of the aircraft fuel
quantity and engine condition was carried out by a representative
of the aircraft's insurer. This assessment indicated that the
aircraft's fuel quantity had been approximately 70 L in the left
tank and nil detectable fuel in the right. The examination of the
engine revealed no identifiable problems that could have
contributed to the engine failure.
The aircraft was fitted with long-range fuel tanks. The pilot
reported that the refuelling operation had been carried out on a
sloping surface and therefore, the aircraft may not have been
laterally level. He was aware that there was a 'Caution' in the
aircraft flight manual which stated that, 'indication errors of up
to 14 gallons [53 L] per tank may result from a one-degree lateral
deviation from level'.
The reason for the reported engine failure could not be
determined.