Approach and Missed Approach
The pilot was cleared for the Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach to runway 34, a 10,000-foot by 100-foot dry asphalt surface, and was instructed to change radio frequency to the airport UNICOM. During the approach, the pilot executed a missed approach and contacted approach control, reporting a "no gear indication."
Attempts to Extend Landing Gear
The aircraft circled over the airport as the pilot attempted to lower the landing gear. The pilot informed approach control of the intention to circle and extend the gear manually. The pilot stated that the wheels "wouldn't budge" and that he was not successful in lowering them manually. Airport personnel requested that the pilot continue circling until emergency equipment was in place; the pilot complied and continued attempting to lower the gear.
Wheels-Up Landing and Runway Sign Strike
When emergency personnel were ready, the pilot landed with the wheels up. During the landing, the aircraft's right wing struck a runway sign.
Pilot Observations and Environmental Conditions
The pilot reported hearing a vibration about halfway to the destination, which stopped after five minutes but later recurred. On the ILS approach, the wheels failed to come down. The pilot noted that the temperature en route was "about minus 5 [degrees]." Responders reported that the aircraft was covered with ice approximately 3/4 inch thick. The weather at the airport was reported as ceilings 400 feet broken, 5,500 feet broken, 7,500 feet overcast; visibility 1-1/2 miles; temperature 2 degrees Fahrenheit; dew point -2 degrees Fahrenheit; winds 040 at 16 knots; and altimeter 30.32 inches.
Examination of Aircraft Systems
An examination of the aircraft's systems showed no anomalies.