What happened
Prior to departing on a cross-country flight, the pilot obtained two weather briefings that included forecasts for high en route winds. Although the pilot filed an IFR flight plan, he did not adjust his estimated time en route based on these wind conditions.
While destination weather was forecasted to improve, an FSS specialist expressed doubt regarding any such improvement. The pilot did not request updated weather information for the destination until nearing the arrival airport. Upon arrival, the pilot attempted a VOR approach despite weather conditions being below the minimum descent altitude. This resulted in a missed approach, prompting the pilot to divert to an alternate airport.
During the flight to the alternate, the pilot reported low fuel levels. An ILS approach at the alternate airport also resulted in a missed approach because the pilot could not see the runway, as weather was at minimums. During a second approach attempt at the alternate, the pilot reported that one engine had quit. The second engine subsequently failed during an attempt to begin a third approach. At the accident site, investigators found that four and one after half gallons of fuel had been drained from the aircraft.