Engine Failure During Flight
A pilot reported that the airplane had been topped with fuel and that he had confirmed it during preflight. After about three hours of flying, the engine quit. The pilot executed a forced landing to a road, but during the flare, the airplane collided with trees and a powerline pole.
Pilot's Fuel Management
The pilot stated that he 'didn't put much stock in the fuel gauges.' Although the fuel gauges were indicating decreasing levels, he relied on time and distance for his fuel calculations.
Maintenance and Inspection
The aircraft maintenance records indicated that the fuel caps were inspected every 12 months. The last inspection of the fuel caps was performed on November 28, 1995. No fuel caps were repaired or replaced during that inspection.
Post-Accident Examination
Inspection of the airplane revealed that the left and right fuel tanks had no drainable fuel. The left wing showed signs of fuel leaking from the fuel cap. Stains were found streaming from the cap and along the top and bottom of the wing flap. Examination of the left fuel tank found that the fuel cap was loose and did not fit properly.