Aircraft Examination
Examination of the aircraft revealed that the fuel selector was positioned to the left main fuel tank. The left main tank contained approximately 3/4 full of a light blue colored fuel. The right main tank was empty. The 20-gallon auxiliary fuel tank was estimated to be between 1/2 and 3/4 full of fuel.
Engine Testing
The engine, a Teledyne Continental E185-11 (serial number 26643-D-8-11), was shipped to Teledyne Continental Motors for examination and testing under the supervision of the National Transportation Safety Board. The testing and examination revealed no anomalies in the engine.
Pilot's Operating Handbook Guidance
The limitations section of the Beechcraft B35 Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) states: "Do not take off when the Fuel Quantity Gages indicate in the Yellow Band or with less than 10 gallons in each main tank." Additionally, the systems description of fuel tank selection in the POH states: "In no case should a take-off be made ... with less than 10 gallons of fuel in each main tank."