Introduction
A pilot reported that three flights totaling approximately five hours were scheduled following the installation of a rebuilt engine. The fuel tanks were nearly full before the first flight. The first and second flights were uneventful and each lasted 3.4 hours.
Preflight Fuel Check
Before departing on the third flight, the pilot used a commercially fabricated dipstick to verify fuel quantity. This dipstick provided incorrect readings. Fuel servicing was not performed prior to departure for the third flight.
Flight and Accident
After departure, the pilot activated his VFR flight plan and later updated the estimated time of arrival. The flight returned to the airport, where the pilot performed two full-stop landings. While turning base for a final full-stop landing, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot was unable to land on the runway due to an extended downwind leg and subsequently landed in trees.
Search and Rescue
The engine had been operated for approximately 6.0 hours since the last fueling. This operation included three additional takeoffs that were not planned during the fuel consumption calculations. Search and rescue efforts were delayed because an air traffic control comment indicated that the overdue flight was actually safe on the ground.