LAX96LA302

The pilot reported that the two 28.8 gallon capacity fuel tanks were both full upon takeoff for her participation in the Palms-to-Pines air race. After flying for 2:10 hours the pilot arrived at Modesto, and she made a low pass over the field for timing purposes. During the go-around, all engine power was suddenly lost and the pilot attempted to land on a street. On approach, the airplane collided with power lines. The airplane impacted the street, and a fuel-fed fire erupted as the airplane slid to a stop. The pilot reported that she anticipated the fuel burn off rate during the flight was about 11.9 gallons per hour. She did not recall switching fuel tanks during the flight. No mechanical malfunctions were found during the postimpact engine examination.

On August 9, 1996, at 1305 hours Pacific daylight time, a Beech B23, N6087N, owned and operated by the pilot, experienced a total loss of engine power during a go-around which followed an intentionally performed low pass over the Modesto City Airport, Modesto, California. When the engine lost power, the airplane was between 600 and 900 feet above ground level. The pilot reported that she made a forced landing on a street, but during the approach collided with power lines. As the airplane slid to a stop a fuel-fed fire erupted, which ultimately destroyed the airplane. Neither the private pilot nor the passenger were injured during the Palms-to-Pines air race. The low pass was performed for timing purposes. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a visual flight rules flight plan was filed. The flight originated from Santa Monica, California, at 1050.

The pilot reported that upon departure the fuel tanks were full. The two wing tanks each held about 28.8 gallons of fuel. Fuel can only be used from one of the tanks at a time since there is no "both" fuel tank selector position. The pilot stated that she did not recall repositioning the fuel selector during the 2:10 hour-long flight. The pilot additionally reported that she anticipated the engine would use about 11.9 gallons per hour during the air race.

Airplane recovery personnel reported that they examined the engine. Compression was obtained in all cylinders. The carburetor fuel screen was found clean. All of the spark plugs appeared to be in a serviceable condition. Spark was obtained upon rotation of the magneto drive gears.