Primary finding
Probable cause
a loss of engine power due to carburetor ice. The lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing was a factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported using carburetor heat initially when he began a descent, but removed the heat prior to attempting to add power. When he attempted to add power the engine did not respond. He was unable to restore power, and made a forced landing in a crop field 300 feet west of the intended runway. The pilot stated he felt the power loss resulted from carburetor ice.
Source record
Factual narrative
On August 6, 1995, at 1315 central daylight time, a Luscombe 8E, N1829K, owned and operated by a private pilot sustained substantial damaged during a forced landing 300 feet west of the Lowell, Indiana airport, following the total loss of engine power. The pilot and one passenger reported no injuries. The personal 14 CFR Part 91 flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions. No flight plan was on file. The flight departed Morris, Illinois, at 1230. The forced landing took place in a farm field planted with a bean crop. The pilot told investigators that he thought that the engine power loss was due to carburetor ice. No weather reporting station was close to the location of the accident reporting both temperature and dew point. Subsequent to the accident an examination of the airplane failed to reveal any pre-existing anomalies in the engine or airframe. -