Incident Overview
During a pre-flight run-up for a simulated instrument flight, the crew observed that the carburetor heat control could only move approximately half of its normal range of travel. The pilots discussed the malfunction and continued running the engine for an additional one to two minutes until the oil temperature gauge indicated a rise in temperature.
Sequence of Events
After takeoff, while the aircraft was climbing through about 400 feet above ground level, the engine began to lose power. The crew followed emergency procedures, but there was no significant gain in engine power. An attempt was made to return and land; however, the pilots were unable to reach the airport. Subsequently, the aircraft hit treetops and crashed short of the runway.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the aircraft later revealed frozen water on the inside of the engine air intake filter. No pre-impact mechanical malfunction was found, except for the restricted travel of the carburetor heat control. Meteorological conditions at the time were reported to be conducive to carburetor icing.