Incident Summary
An airplane sustained substantial damage after an in-flight loss of engine power forced the pilot to conduct a landing in a plowed field. The pilot reported no injuries.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, the takeoff was normal, with the engine producing 2350 RPM at full throttle and a fuel pressure reading of 4.5 PSI. While climbing at 70 MPH and approximately 300 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot applied carburetor heat, pumped the throttle, and checked the electric fuel pump, which was on and operating. No power was restored. The pilot then turned 45 degrees and landed in a plowed field.
Examination Findings
An on-scene examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies. All spark plugs were covered with "black soot looking deposits." The ambient temperature was 24 degrees Celsius, and the dew point was 16 degrees Celsius.
Carburetor Icing Conditions
A copy of a Transport Canada Carburetor Icing chart was reviewed. The temperature and dew point were plotted on the chart. Their intersection fell in the moderate icing (cruise power) or serious icing (descent power) area of the chart.