Background
Before departure, the pilot received a weather briefing indicating the possibility of moderate icing in clouds from the surface to 4000 feet. During the flight, the aircraft encountered structural icing conditions, resulting in rime ice accumulation on the windshield. Carburetor icing conditions also occurred, prompting the pilot to apply full carburetor heat.
In-Flight Icing
As the flight neared its destination, the pilot decided to continue. After turning the carburetor heat off for a short period, the pilot reactivated it approximately 8 miles from the destination airport. As the aircraft approached the airport, ice began to accumulate rapidly on the wings, tires, struts, and windshield. The windshield became almost entirely covered with ice.
Engine Loss and Emergency Landing
After entering the traffic pattern to land, the pilot turned onto the base leg with about 16 inches of manifold pressure. At that time, the engine lost power and could not be restarted. The pilot performed an emergency landing in a small field short of the runway. During the landing, the landing gear collapsed before the aircraft came to a stop.
Investigation
Post-accident investigation found no preimpact part failure or malfunction.