Accident Narrative
A pilot and passenger experienced an engine power loss while on a downwind approach, leading to a forced landing in a field during which the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. According to the pilot, a newly overhauled carburetor had been installed and tested successfully the day before, with two additional run-ups conducted on the day of the flight. The takeoff and climb were normal. At approximately 1,000 feet above ground level on the downwind leg, the pilot pulled the carburetor heat and reduced power. Seconds later, when attempting to add power, the engine was unresponsive. Realizing the descent rate would not allow reaching the airport, the pilot selected a nearby field for landing. The field appeared to be a hard-packed bean field but was actually a potato field with soft, rain-soaked soil and ruts 1½ to 2 feet deep. The landing gear touchdown was uneventful until the nose gear contacted the soft ground and dug in, causing the airplane to flip onto its back and slide to a stop.
Examination
Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact anomalies with the airframe, engine, or carburetor. All components were found to be in working order, with no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction that could explain the loss of engine power.
Meteorological Conditions
Weather conditions at the time included a temperature of 28°C and a dew point of 16°C. When plotted on a Transport Canada Carburetor Icing chart, these values fell within the "serious icing - descent power" area, indicating conditions conducive to carburetor icing at reduced power settings.