Flight Purpose and Profile
The pilot reported that the flight was conducted as a maintenance check, as the aircraft had not flown extensively in the preceding three months. After approximately 50 minutes of flight, the pilot returned to the airport. During the flight, the pilot stated that he had checked for carburetor ice several times.
Approach and Power Loss
While returning to the airport in mist, the pilot applied carburetor heat and reduced power to descend from 2,000 feet to 1,100 feet. He was setting up for a 45-degree entry to runway 12 when he closed the carburetor heat and applied power. The pilot stated that the engine did not respond and would not "make power." He was unable to restore power, and the engine eventually lost all power before he initiated a forced landing to an open sand pit.
Landing and Post-Crash Inspection
During the landing roll in the sand pit, the airplane nosed over. A post-crash inspection of the engine found that the engine was able to be started. However, due to impact damage, the engine was run only for a short time before it was shut down.
Weather Conditions
According to a carburetor icing probability chart, the weather conditions present were conducive for serious carburetor icing at cruise power.