Flight Details
The pilot departed Modesto with 90 gallons of fuel on board. The flight proceeded to Fresno to pick up passengers before continuing to Phoenix. In Phoenix, the pilot requested that the right fuel tank be filled and that half that amount be added to the left tank. The fuel receipt showed a total of 45 gallons were added. The pilot did not visually check the fuel levels after refueling.
Fuel Management
While passing Bakersfield, the pilot observed that the fuel gauges indicated a higher rate of fuel consumption than expected. In response, he reduced the power setting. As the flight neared its destination, the pilot began switching between fuel tanks until both tanks ran dry.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
The engine quit approximately 4 to 5 miles from the runway. The pilot executed a forced landing in an almond orchard. The pilot later stated that, by his calculations, he had sufficient fuel on board to complete the flight.
Post-Flight Analysis
The engine tachometer recorded a total flight time of 6.9 hours. Performance charts for a similar flight indicated a requirement of at least 130 gallons of usable fuel, excluding reserves. Fuel records showed that a total of 132 gallons of usable fuel had been available for the flight.
Prior Maintenance
An Airworthiness Directive (AD) intended to prevent loss of engine power caused by inadvertent fuel loss or inadequate fuel servicing had been accomplished on January 19, 1995. In accordance with the AD, the operator had recalibrated the fuel gauges, placed placards on the fuel filler ports, and revised the pilot operating procedures in the Pilot's Operating Handbook.