What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-08-08 involved a Beech C23, registration N24651, at Mammoth Lakes, CA.

Partial Engine Power Loss During Pleasure Flight Following Carburetor Heat Adjustment (N24651)

On August 8, 1987, a Beech C23 (registration N24651) was involved in an aviation accident near Mammoth Lakes, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

During a pleasure flight, the engine experienced a partial power loss shortly after takeoff when the pilot set the carburetor heat to full cold. Investigation found no mechanical failures, but the density altitude was high and carburetor icing probability could not be determined due to missing dew point data.

Accident Details

During a pleasure flight, shortly after takeoff, the engine experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot had positioned the carburetor heat control to full cold at that time. The pilot stated that during the runup, he would position the carburetor heat to one eighth hot in order to obtain full power.

Pilot Actions

The pilot reported that his runup procedure involved setting the carburetor heat to one eighth hot to achieve full engine power. After takeoff, the engine lost partial power when the carburetor heat was moved to the full cold position.

Investigation Findings

Inspection and a flow test of the carburetor revealed that it would sustain engine operation. No mechanical failures or malfunctions were reported.

Environmental Conditions

The temperature recorded at Mammoth Lakes Airport 13 minutes after the accident was 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The density altitude was calculated to be 10,300 feet. The dew point was not recorded; therefore, the probability of carburetor icing could not be determined.

1987-08-08: Beech C23 (N24651) — Mammoth Lakes, CA