Accident Summary
A private pilot experienced a total loss of engine power while flying in level cruise. The pilot reported selecting a snow and tree-covered area as a forced landing site after unsuccessful attempts to restart the engine. During the landing, the airplane's left wing collided with a tree, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and left wing.
Environmental Conditions
The pilot noted that the outside air temperature at the time of the accident was minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit.
Postaccident Findings
In a written report to the NTSB, the pilot stated that a postaccident inspection revealed the engine fuel gascolator filter had been blocked by ice crystals. The pilot indicated there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.
Pilot Remarks
The pilot commented that the accident might have been prevented by removing the gascolator during preflight to check for ice crystals, or by preheating the engine and draining water from the gascolator.