What happened
The pilot was conducting a simulated engine-out approach toward a private 1,800-foot grass airstrip. The flight plan involved reaching 100 feet above ground level (agl) before executing a go-around. To maintain a small amount of power and prevent the throttle from closing completely, the pilot maintained a manifold pressure of approximately 12 inches.
As the Cessna (type not specified in source, but engine is IO-0470-F) reached 100 feet agl, the pilot attempted to initiate the go-around by moving the throttle partially forward. However, the engine RPM failed to increase. Despite pushing the throttle to the full forward position, the propeller continued to windmill only. Realizing that the engine had lost all power, the pilot was unable to reach the grass strip and instead performed an emergency landing in a field located past the departure end of the runway.
The landing site consisted of rough, uneven terrain covered with high vegetation. Approximately 15 feet after the main landing gear made contact with the ground, the internal structure of the right main landing gear attachment box failed, causing the right main gear leg to collapse. This collapse resulted in the right wing contacting the terrain. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft and the Continental Motors IO-0470-F engine was conducted. Investigators found no mechanical anomalies that would have caused a loss of power. Following the inspection, the engine was started and operated without any detected malfunctions.