Overview
A pilot reported that prior to departure, there was an estimated 14 gallons of fuel on board. After approximately 30 minutes of flight, the engine lost all power, necessitating a forced landing in a mountainous creek bed.
Sequence of Events
During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a tree and overturned. The pilot stated that he used a stopwatch to track fuel consumption because the fuel gauges were inaccurate.
Post-Accident Examination
Post-crash examination of the aircraft revealed only trace amounts of fuel in the fuel tanks, lines, carburetor bowl, and accelerator pump. No fuel was found in the gascolator. The engine was later test-run and operated satisfactorily.
The fuel line between the firewall and carburetor was identified as a rubber vacuum line, which was an unapproved installation. The line was so deteriorated and brittle that it broke into several pieces while being removed for examination.