Piper PA-28-180 N7838W accident near Nephi, Utah

Probable cause

The pilot’s incorrect movement of the fuel selector valve to an off or restricted position, which resulted in fuel starvation and a loss of engine power.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that during cruise flight, about 900 to 1,000 ft above ground level, he switched fuel tanks, and shortly after, the engine began to sputter and lose power. He attempted to troubleshoot by advancing the mixture and throttle levers, however, was unable to restore engine power and initiated a forced landing to a field. During the landing roll, the nose wheel dug into soft terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the engine mount and right wing. The pilot stated that he may have placed the fuel selector valve to an intermediate position and not within the fuel selector detents, which likely starved the engine for fuel.

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

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA178 for the full record.