Flight Details
The flight originated at Cambridge, Idaho, with a planned refueling stop at Billings, Montana. According to the pilot, the aircraft was "topped off" at Cambridge before takeoff. While en route, southerly winds were encountered, which drifted the aircraft north, prompting an unscheduled refueling stop at Roundup, Montana. However, no fuel was available at Roundup. The pilot estimated 15 gallons of fuel remained and elected to fly 81 miles to Forsyth, Montana.
Engine Failure and Emergency Landing
During arrival at Forsyth, the engine lost power. The pilot performed an emergency landing, during which the aircraft went through a fence, then struck another fence and two trees. According to the pilot, he drained 5 gallons of fuel from the aircraft, which was leaking fuel. The aircraft held 3.5 gallons of unusable fuel. Later, the engine was started and run to 1500 RPM, but not higher due to a bent propeller blade.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the engine revealed no preimpact discrepancies. The temperature was 88 degrees Fahrenheit, but the dew point was unknown. Approximately 9 gallons of fuel would have been required to fly from Roundup to Forsyth.