Flight Sequence
The airplane was on a 200-mile instrument cross-country flight. While climbing to 10,000 feet, the pilot attempted to lean the mixture, causing the engine to sputter and cough. The pilot then set the mixture to the FULL RICH position. Unable to reach the planned altitude, the pilot canceled the IFR flight plan and continued visually with flight following.
About halfway through the flight, the right wing fuel gauge indicated empty. Concerned about abnormal fuel consumption, the pilot nevertheless decided to proceed to the original destination and switched the fuel selector to the left tank. At that time, the airplane was overflying several airports with maintenance and fueling facilities.
Emergency and Go-Around
Approaching the destination, the left fuel tank gauge indicated a low quantity, and the pilot declared an emergency. The pilot attempted to land at a nearby airport but found the airplane too high and fast for landing. During the go-around attempt, the engine lost power, and the airplane subsequently collided with ground obstacles.
Post-Accident Examination
Post-accident examination revealed no fuel staining on the airplane. The vent lines and ports were unobstructed, and the fuel tank filler cap seals were in good condition. Approximately 3 gallons of fuel were drained from the left tank, and approximately 10.5 gallons were drained from the right tank. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), the total fuel system capacity is 65 gallons, with 5 gallons (2.5 per tank) unusable. The fuel selector has three positions: OFF, LEFT, and RIGHT. At the accident site, the fuel selector was found in the LEFT position. Impact damage precluded functional testing of the engine and the fuel metering unit. Fueling records indicated that the airplane was filled to capacity before departure.