Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that while the aircraft was climbing at an altitude of about 20 to 30 feet above ground level (AGL), he made a power reduction. Immediately thereafter, the engine lost power without warning. Uncertain whether he could clear a fence ahead, the pilot executed a left turn of approximately 110 degrees. Subsequently, the aircraft impacted relatively flat, frozen terrain. It slid 96 feet and came to rest approximately 175 feet east of the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
The broken carburetor was removed and disassembled. No preimpact part failure or noticeable contamination was found. The engine was operationally checked; it started and operated with no problems that would have caused the accident.
Environmental Conditions
The temperature and dew point were 36 degrees Fahrenheit and 27 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. According to carburetor ice charts, conditions were conducive to carburetor ice formation.
Takeoff Details
The accident occurred after the pilot had initiated an intersection takeoff with about 1960 feet of runway remaining.