Preflight Fuel Assessment
Before departure, the pilot conducted a visual check of the fuel quantity and believed there was sufficient fuel for the flight. According to the pilot, the fuel quantity gauges agreed with his estimate. He reported that 25 to 30 gallons of fuel were on board at takeoff and that no more than 20 gallons should have been needed for the intended flight.
In-Flight Power Loss
During the flight, before reaching the destination, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot suspected excessive fuel consumption, a fuel leak, or fuel siphoning, but no malfunction or leakage was later verified.
Landing Maneuver
At dusk, the pilot attempted to land on a road. During the approach, the aircraft clipped the tops of trees. The pilot then maneuvered to avoid power lines, subsequently landing the aircraft in underbrush beside the road.
Post-Event Inspection
After the event, the engine was operationally checked and ran smoothly at 900 RPM. No mechanical anomalies were found that could have caused fuel loss.