Introduction
During a flight, the pilot managed fuel by switching tanks at intervals of one to two hours. While arriving at the destination, the pilot had been using fuel from the right tank and chose to continue using it.
Sequence of Events
As the pilot aligned the aircraft with the runway, a sharp 360-degree turn was executed to avoid another aircraft and obtain spacing. Around that time, the engine lost power. The pilot elected to land on a hill, and during the approach, maneuvered the aircraft under power lines.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident investigation revealed that the fuel selector was still positioned to the right tank, which was empty. Approximately 10.25 gallons of fuel were drained from the left main and header tanks. When checked, the right fuel gauge indicated 20 to 45 pounds, but the reading changed each time power was applied. The owner's manual stated that when the fuel bays were less than one-quarter full, prolonged, uncoordinated flight could result in fuel starvation.