Accident Sequence
While operating on a VFR cross-country flight, the airplane suffered a complete loss of engine power as a result of fuel exhaustion. The pilot then conducted an emergency landing to level, sage brush covered, open desert terrain. During the descent, the pilot did not maintain the recommended glide airspeed and stalled the airplane.
Fuel Status Prior to Departure
The investigation revealed that on the evening before the accident flight, the pilot added 19 gallons of fuel to the tanks. This brought both fuel tanks to approximately three-quarters full. The total fuel capacity of the airplane was about 29.25 gallons. However, the pilot did not visually inspect the fuel tank levels before departing on the accident flight.
Examination Findings
Examination of the engine, airframe, and engine fuel system found no preexisting malfunctions or failures. The specific reason for the fuel exhaustion could not be determined.
Aircraft Performance Data
According to the airplane's owner's manual, with 29.25 gallons of fuel at 75% power, the fuel endurance range should have been approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes.