Pilot Debrief

GRUMMAN G-164B near Colfax, WA — 2009-05-04

Final reportWPR09LA227
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Date
2009-05-04
Location
Colfax, WA, USA
Airport
S94
Aircraft
GRUMMAN G-164B
Registration
N6628Q
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Initial climb

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power due to excessive wear in several carburetor components that led to a malfunction of the carburetor.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that the airplane was about 100 feet above ground level following takeoff when the engine lost power. He landed straight ahead in a muddy dirt field. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed over and the engine separated from the airframe. Postaccident examination of the engine core revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Examination of the carburetor revealed that the bushings on the throttle shaft and pump stem were worn, which allowed excessive play. The economizer linkage was also found to be loose; there was evidence of fretting on the mating surface to the engine and around the mounting bolt holes. The carburetor fuel screen was clean. The floats exhibited hydraulic crush damage consistent with fuel in the bowl, and the accelerator pump was worn. Based on the findings of the postaccident examination, excessive wear of the carburetor likely led to the loss of engine power.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have conducted a more thorough pre-flight engine check.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

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