Incident
The aircraft experienced a loss of engine power while passing 4,000 feet during climbout. The pilot immediately reversed course and attempted to reach Lovell Field. However, the aircraft was unable to reach the runway and landed in a shopping center parking lot approximately 1 mile short of the runway. During the landing, the right wing struck a signpost and the nose gear collapsed.
Investigation
Examination of the aircraft revealed that the throttle linkage had separated at the control shaft under the rod end that connects to the fuel control. The fracture area was located in the control rod, and the fracture surface exhibited rust over the entire break. A metallurgical examination determined that the control shaft had failed due to a fatigue fracture at the point where the drive screw was inserted through the sleeve, the threaded brass bushing, and into the control shaft.
Maintenance History
Cessna Service Bulletin 69-16, dated July 22, 1969, identified this problem and described procedures to remedy it. Service letters are not mandatory, and there was no record of compliance with the bulletin in the aircraft's logbook.