Accident Overview
During cruise flight at an altitude of approximately 700 feet above ground level, the airplane's engine began to sputter and lose power. The pilot reported switching the fuel selector from the left fuel tank to the right fuel tank. Approximately 15 minutes later, the engine continued to lose power. The pilot attempted to switch fuel tanks again, but the engine did not respond. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot executed a forced ditching. The pilot noted that the engine never experienced a total loss of power.
Environmental Conditions
At the time of the accident, light snow was falling. The outside air temperature was 32 degrees Fahrenheit, with a dew point of 29 degrees Fahrenheit. According to icing probability curves, conditions favorable to the formation of induction system icing existed.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions. The fuel tank selector was found selected to the left fuel tank. The left fuel tank was empty, while the right fuel tank contained an undetermined amount of fuel. The carburetor heat control was found in the 'cold' position.
Pilot Comments
In the recommendations section of the pilot report, the pilot stated: "...pull the carb heat...carb ice should be given more emphasis in training...."