Piper J3C-65 N22394 accident near Sandwich, Illinois

Probable cause

The pilot's delay in using carburetor heat resulting in a partial loss of engine power due to carburetor icing.

NTSB analysis

Approximately 15 minutes after takeoff while maneuvering approximately 100 feet above ground level, the airplane's engine lost partial power or "bogged down." The pilot said that he applied power; however, the engine did not respond. He scanned the engine gauges and no anomalies were noted. He said that he then applied carburetor heat; however, he did not have much time as he was about to land. He elected to perform a forced landing to a wet/muddy field. During the landing, the airplane impacted the terrain and nosed over. Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. The temperature and dew point at the time of the accident were conducive to serious icing at cruise power.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10CA252 for the full record.