The Flight
A pilot departed on a flight after visually checking the fuel and knowing the tanks were not full. The pilot reported that the engine was not equipped with valves to accept 100 octane fuel, so only 80/87 octane fuel would be used. During the flight, the pilot encountered clouds and diverted from the original route.
Fuel Management
The left fuel tank became dry approximately 20 miles south of Phoenix Field in Fair Oaks, California. After switching to the right tank, the pilot checked the fuel gauge, which indicated a little less than half full. The pilot continued toward Phoenix Field while diverting.
Power Loss and Landing
While the pilot was diverting, the engine lost power and could not be restarted. The aircraft subsequently performed a landing on rough, hilly terrain in an area with trees and brush. The aircraft sustained substantial damage. The elevation of the crash site was approximately 4,500 feet MSL.