Incident Overview
A pilot experienced a loss of engine power approximately 15 miles from Elko during flight, prompting a forced landing on a road. The aircraft sustained damage during the landing.
Fuel Management and Gauge Indications
Prior to the flight, the owner of the aircraft stated that he had "topped the tanks" after the previous flight. The pilot reported that he did not visually check the fuel before takeoff. During the flight, the right fuel gauge continued to indicate full. At the time the engine began losing power, the left fuel gauge indicated 1/4 full, while the right gauge still showed full. After the engine failure, the pilot was unable to restart the engine by selecting either tank.
Post-Incident Findings
An inspection of the aircraft revealed no fuel in the fuel tanks. With the master switch on, the left fuel gauge indicated empty, and the right gauge indicated full. Fuel stains were found on the tops of both wings. A pressure check of the fuel system revealed extensive leakage from the left wing. The left wing fuel cap pliable seal was found to be dried out.
Conclusion
The forced landing resulted from fuel exhaustion, as evidenced by the empty tanks and the presence of a fuel leak from the left wing. The dried-out fuel cap seal likely contributed to the leakage.