Flight and Engine Failure
The pilot and passenger departed for a local flight to practice landings. During the crosswind leg at about 200 to 300 feet above ground level, the engine quit. An attempt to restart the engine failed.
Forced Landing and Accident
The pilot landed the aircraft in a pasture that was sloped, rough, and contained a dry creek bed. Upon reaching the creek bed, the airplane nosed over.
Examination Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed that the carburetor mixture control linkage was frozen and would not respond to movement of the cockpit control. Disassembly of the carburetor revealed evidence of moisture and water contamination, accumulated over an extended period of time, which caused rust, corrosion, and binding of the mixture control shaft in the lean to near idle cutoff position.
Maintenance History
Examination of the engine records showed that the last time the carburetor was overhauled was about June 2, 1983, while installed in an experimental aircraft. The engine was installed in the accident aircraft on May 17, 1991, after accumulating about 132 hours in about 8 years and 6 months. The manufacturer recommends that the carburetor be overhauled every 5 calendar years.