Pre-Landing Checklist and Engine Roughness
As the airplane neared its destination, the pilot performed a pre-landing checklist. When he placed the mixture control to full 'RICH', the engine began to run rough. The pilot reported that applying carburetor heat did not eliminate the roughness.
Fuel Tank Selection and Engine Failure
The pilot then positioned the fuel selector to the 'RIGHT' fuel tank. The engine resumed normal operation for a short time before quitting completely.
Post-Accident Examination
On-scene examination revealed no usable fuel in the airplane's fuel tanks.
Pilot's Statement on Fueling
The pilot stated that he had instructed another pilot to fill the fuel tanks to the filler neck the day before the accident flight. During his preflight inspection, he did not visually check the fuel level but instead relied on the fuel tank gauges to confirm that the tanks were 'FULL'.