Incident Summary
While in cruise flight, the engine lost 25–35 RPM and began to run rough. The pilot checked the magnetos, which were found to be operating normally, and then applied carburetor heat. Following carburetor heat application, the engine decelerated to idle and would not accelerate back to normal power.
Emergency Landing
The pilot executed an emergency landing to a field that was soft and muddy. During touchdown, the aircraft struck a fence. During the landing roll, the landing gear sheared off after sinking into the soft terrain.
Post-accident Examination
An examination of the aircraft and engine provided no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. The temperature/dew point spread at the time of the occurrence was 14 degrees Fahrenheit.