On June 16, 1987, a Beech 3NM (registration N37CB) operated by Rhoades Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Cahokia, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper assembly of the right propeller hub preventing propeller feathering, and an inoperative right carburetor heat system due to missing ducts connecting the manifold heat muffs to the carburetor air box. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft experienced a right engine power loss immediately after takeoff. The pilot could not feather the propeller and landed in a wheat field. Investigation revealed improper propeller hub assembly and an inoperative carburetor heat system due to missing ducts.
Accident
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a loss of power in the right engine. The pilot was unable to feather the propeller and was forced to land in a wheat field located on airport property. Conditions at the time of the accident were conducive to carburetor icing.
Investigation
The subsequent investigation revealed that the right propeller hub had been improperly assembled, which prevented the propeller from feathering. Additionally, the right carburetor heat system was found to be inoperative because the ducts connecting the manifold heat muffs to the carburetor air box were missing.
Findings
The investigation determined that the improper assembly of the right propeller hub and the missing ducts for the carburetor heat system were present. These conditions contributed to the inability to feather the propeller and the lack of carburetor heat, respectively.
Probable cause
Improper assembly of the right propeller hub preventing propeller feathering, and an inoperative right carburetor heat system due to missing ducts connecting the manifold heat muffs to the carburetor air box.