Incident Overview
A pilot intentionally departed on a cross-country flight despite knowing that the fuel tanks did not contain enough fuel to reach the intended destination. The purpose of the flight was to run the fuel tanks dry in order to check the calibration of the fuel quantity indication system during an annual inspection.
Sequence of Events
During the flight, due to his altitude, the pilot overflew his first choice for refueling. At that time, the fuel quantity indication became erratic. As he began his letdown for a second landing option, the engine quit.
Forced Landing and Collision
The pilot attempted to land in a cow pasture. During the landing, the aircraft collided with small berms present in the field.