What happened
While operating in cruise flight, the pilot reported that the engine began to sputter and lose power. After attempting to apply carburetor heat with no effect, the pilot performed an emergency landing in a grass field.
During the landing rollout, the aircraft was traveling at a speed between 10 and 15 miles per hour when it encountered a furrow located between two fields. This impact caused the airplane to nose over.
The investigation
Investigators examined the fuel system by sampling both tanks and the gascolator; the fuel was found to be clear. Regarding the carburetor, the unit was secure, and both the venturi and the bleed tube were properly in place. Records indicated that a carburetor Airworthiness Directive had been completed during the most recent annual inspection.
Following the accident, a post-accident engine test run was performed. This test produced no abnormal indications.