Skyhawk 172/Cutlass 172
Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 4; Flight Crew Total 183; Flight Crew Type 183
Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue
Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Aircraft; Human Factors
I did my preflight and run up; everything checked out so I proceeded to take off. After my turn out at about 1500 ft I noticed my right tank fuel reading had dropped to empty after reading a little below half during my run up. I proceeded to make my call to Tower with my position and intention and asked to be expedited because of my fuel gauge reading. Tower instructed me to proceed at 1500 ft or below; remain on course and to enter the left down wind. I remained at 1500 ft; which was when my engine began to run rough. I checked all gauges and everything was good except for my oil temp which was showing red. After a few minutes the engine began to sputter; I knew there was no way I was making the airfield and I made the decision to find a field and get the aircraft down as soon as possible in a safe location before I entered a higher populated area. I initiated a left turn; ran my checklist; advised Tower of my intentions; and shot for a clear strip of grass away from all roads and property. I was able to execute a successful soft field landing without causing any injury to myself or anyone on the ground and keeping the aircraft; personnel; and private property from being damaged.
C172 pilot reported executing an off-field landing after the engine began to sputter and a developing fuel quantity issue.