Incident Overview
A pilot, who had borrowed the airplane, reported that during cruise flight at 1,500 feet MSL while looking at property, the engine backfired and began to sputter. Attempts to resolve the issue by switching fuel tanks and applying carburetor heat for an undetermined time were unsuccessful. The pilot decided to perform a precautionary landing on a ranch road.
Landing and Impact
During the landing roll on the road, the right wing struck a tree, causing the airplane to veer right. Subsequently, the left wing contacted the ground. The aircraft came to rest after these impacts.
Post-Accident Examination
The owner recovered the airplane and reported that the engine operated normally throughout two engine starts, run-ups, and the subsequent takeoff and flight. No anomalies were noted in the engine's performance.
Weather Conditions
The temperature and dew point conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to the formation of carburetor ice at cruise and glide power settings.