SEA87FA165

The pilot executed an emergency landing on a golf course after a power loss which he attributed to carburetor ice. Subsequent to the landing the aircraft was fueled with 10 gallons of automotive gasoline. The fuel was checked for water at the strainer drain and the pilot and rated passenger then taxied out conducting an engine runup before taking off. Shortly after takeoff the engine abruptly quit and the pilot attempted to turn back to the golf course, the only suitable landing area available. The altitude of the aircraft at the time of the power loss precluded a successful course reversal and landing and the aircraft collided with a tree. No mechanical malfunctioncould be related to the engine nor was there any evidence of water in the fuel. Although carburetor icing conditions existed at the time of the accident the rapidity of the power cessation was such that carburetor icing was unlikely.