On May 11, 1983, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C (registration N3355H) was involved in an aviation accident near Ceresco, MI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing approach, an aircraft experienced power loss after the pilot advanced the throttle. It struck a tree short of the runway and crashed. Inspection revealed loose carburetor heat cable and heavy soot deposits.
Narrative
The pilot reported that the aircraft performed normally until the final approach for landing. During the approach, the aircraft began losing altitude excessively. The pilot advanced the throttle in response. Subsequently, the engine lost power. The aircraft then struck the top of a tree short of the runway and crashed.
Examination
An examination of the aircraft disclosed that the carburetor heat cable was loose. Heavy soot deposits were found in the exhaust stacks and on the spark plugs. The temperature at the time was 74 degrees Fahrenheit with a dew point of 42 degrees Fahrenheit. According to icing probability charts, serious carburetor icing could occur at glide power.
Conditions
Meteorological data showed a temperature of 74°F and dew point of 42°F. The combination of temperature and dew point, as per published charts, indicated that serious carburetor icing could occur under glide power conditions.