Sequence of Events
One month before the accident, erratic engine operation was noted after engine shutdown. Five days before the accident, a fuel stain was observed on the nose landing gear wheel pant during preflight; the fuel quantity was not visually verified. Three days before the accident, a fuel leak from the carburetor was detected. The pilot, who was not an A&P mechanic, diagnosed the issue but did not have the carburetor examined by a qualified technician.
Accident Flight
The airplane flew to another airport in the Bahamas, where 14 gallons of fuel were purchased. The fuel tanks were not filled due to cost and concerns about safety while flying over water. The pilot used a non-calibrated dipstick to measure fuel. The accident flight departed, and while on final approach to an airport where Customs was knowingly closed, the pilot was advised of the closure. The flight proceeded toward another airport for Customs clearance. While on final approach to that airport, the engine quit due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot landed the airplane on a road.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the carburetor after the accident revealed flooding at low throttle settings. This was caused by a failed float hinge pin and missing and incorrectly installed hardware, which would result in an increase in fuel flow at the full-rich position. The carburetor had accumulated 544 hours since installation, following an overhaul 5 years and 11 months earlier.