Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Flight Instructor
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 500; Flight Crew Total 2000; Flight Crew Type 100
Human-Machine Interface
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Diverted; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
During the descent I switched the fuel selector from the left to right tank and experienced engine failure due to loss of fuel pressure. I returned the fuel selector to the left tank and never regained fuel pressure. At this time I turned towards [the airport] and notified ATC of engine problems and stated my intention to land at [the airport].  We made a safe landing on Runway 18 with no damage or injuries. The next morning we discovered that the fuel selector handle had separated from the fuel selector stem that extends into the fuel valve which was stuck in the off position.
An M20 pilot deadsticked to a safe landing at a nearby airport when the engine failed while switching tanks. A malfunctioning fuel tank selector valve was reponsible.