Event Summary
During cruise flight, the pilot set the manifold pressure to 22 inches and the engine speed to 2,200 rpm. As the aircraft began its descent, the pilot reduced manifold pressure to 16-17 inches, engaged the carburetor heat, and maintained the engine speed at 2,200 rpm. The aircraft was approximately 2 miles from the airport, initiating a 45-degree entry to the downwind leg, which is the local approach pattern. One notch of flaps had been selected.
Engine Power Loss and Forced Landing
While descending through 600 feet, the engine ceased producing power. The pilot retracted the flaps after the engine stopped. Approximately 20 feet above the trees, the pilot selected full down flaps. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees during the off-airport forced landing.
Post-Landing Actions and Examination
After the aircraft came to rest, the pilot secured the master switch, magnetos, and fuel. The aircraft came to rest in a nose-low position, and fuel was observed flowing from the vent. During a follow-up examination, the engine was run for several minutes in a test run, and no discrepancies were noted.