Incident Overview
A non-certificated pilot attempted a takeoff after approximately ten minutes of ground operation. During the ground operation, the pilot completed a runup, though the passenger was uncertain about the extent of the carburetor heat check. As the airplane climbed through 400 feet, the engine suddenly quit. The pilot selected an open field and attempted a forced landing. The airplane touched down in a freshly plowed field about 100 yards left of the departure end of runway 27.
Aircraft Examination
Following the incident, an examination of the airplane revealed that approximately eight gallons of fuel were recovered from the right fuel tank, while no fuel was recovered from the left fuel tank. No mechanical problems were discovered during the wreckage examination. The fuel selector had been placed on the right fuel tank before the takeoff roll.
Weather Conditions
A review of weather data disclosed that conditions were favorable for the formation of carburetor ice.
Pilot Status
The non-certificated pilot did not hold a current third class medical certificate.