Event Summary
The pilot reported a rapid descent from 1,500 feet to 600 feet, after which he leveled the airplane and applied engine power. The engine did not respond. Despite his efforts to remedy the situation, the power loss persisted, leading him to decide on a forced landing to a field.
Landing and Impact
On short final approach, the airplane struck brush, nosed down, and flipped over. The wreckage came to rest inverted.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed adequate fuel on board, and fuel was found throughout the system and engine up to the flow divider. Following recovery, the engine was test-run while still mounted on the airframe, using existing controls and an improvised fuel supply system. The engine started and operated up to power settings of 2,000 RPM. Throughout the runs, the engine responded to all throttle movements without hesitation.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not identify a probable cause for the loss of engine power.