Flight and Weather Conditions
The pilot was conducting a VFR cross-country flight when the weather deteriorated to broken to overcast ceilings. The pilot described the weather conditions as worsening during the flight.
Instrument Failure
The pilot noticed that the vacuum pressure in the instrument pressure gauge dropped below the normal operating range, and both gyros began to fail. Approximately 10 minutes later, the pressure dropped to zero, resulting in the loss of the artificial horizon, directional gyro, and wing leveler system.
Diversion and Landing
After losing the gyros, the pilot elected to proceed toward the nearest airport (Huntsville) using VOR navigation. The weather continued to deteriorate, and the pilot chose to descend to remain VFR. The airplane descended below the minimum reception altitude for the VOR, leading to the loss of VOR and DME signals. The pilot then decided to execute a precautionary landing in an open pasture.
Landing Incident
The pilot reported to the Investigator-in-Charge (IIC) that the selected field appeared level from the air. However, during the landing roll, the pilot discovered that the field had several rises that minimized the effectiveness of the wheel brakes. This resulted in the airplane skidding into a fence post.