Background
According to the pilot, the airplane was refueled to its capacity of 50 gallons before departure. The flight had been underway for 4.2 hours when, during a descent from 8000 to 4000 feet MSL, the engine sputtered several times and then lost power entirely.
Pilot Observations and Actions
The pilot reported that at the time of power loss, the left fuel gauge indicated 4 gallons, while the right gauge showed approximately 7 to 8 gallons. The fuel selector was set to draw from the left tank. In an effort to restore power, the pilot switched fuel tanks and attempted other actions, but none succeeded.
Investigation Findings
The investigation disclosed no evidence of mechanical malfunction. Examination of the fuel system revealed that the carburetor inlet fuel line was empty. The left wing separated from the aircraft during the crash impact sequence and came to rest in a tree; it was not accessible for examination. The amount of fuel remaining in the right tank could not be determined.
Performance Data
Performance charts for the airplane, using the power settings reported by the pilot, indicated a fuel flow of approximately 8.4 gallons per hour.