Sequence of Events
The aircraft involved had been refueled on a previous flight. After arriving at Dunsmuir, it was parked until maintenance was performed the following week for a low manifold pressure problem. The owner, who estimated at least 9 gallons of usable fuel remained, decided to fly the aircraft to Redding for its annual inspection. Upon arrival in Redding, the owner picked up a mechanic. The plan was for the mechanic to fly back to Dunsmuir with the pilot and then return the aircraft to Redding.
Before departing Redding, the mechanic inspected both fuel tanks while the engine was running and observed no fuel in the right tank and some fuel in the left tank. The aircraft then flew to Dunsmuir, where the owner deplaned. The mechanic, now acting as the pilot, departed on the 15- to 20-minute flight back to Redding.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
Approximately 5 miles from the airport, while climbing, the engine stopped. Attempts to restart it were unsuccessful. The pilot turned the aircraft back toward the airport, but it crash landed short of the runway.
Fuel Status and Requirements
After the accident, only residual fuel was found in the fuel tanks. Fuel system continuity was established. According to the aircraft's flight manual, a minimum of 13 gallons of fuel was required in each fuel tank before takeoff.