I maintained low power (maybe 1300 RPM) on final, but not idle. Approaching
the runway (was simulating a short field landing) and clearing the
ubiquitous 50 ft. obstacle, I cut power to idle and dropped my last notch of
flaps. It was a matter of several seconds from this point to flare and the
engine quitting.

I would think that at low speed (prox 60 kts approach), moderate temps (just
above freezing... all is relative ;-) and 1300 RPM (and carb heat applied)
there would be enough heat to ward off carb ice, but I'm admittedly short on
experience with this sort of thing.

"nrp" wrote in message
oups.com...
I agree it is probably carb ice & a remelt situation. My 150 hp 172M
will actually ice up to a limit quite quickly under the right
conditions. Note that OP probably had a very low power approach over
his obstacle in which case there would be little heat available for the
carb heat stove.

Those who say Lycomings won't ice up just haven't encountered the right
conditions - yet.