Incident Overview
A pilot reported that the aircraft was the third in the traffic pattern for landing on runway 17. Carburetor heat was applied during the downwind leg, and engine power was used until the aircraft was established on a three-mile final approach. At that point, power was reduced and a glide was established. Shortly thereafter, the pilot advanced the throttle to adjust the glide path, but the engine would not accelerate above idle power.
Weather Conditions
The temperature and dew point recorded at an airport located 10 nautical miles north of the accident site were 55 degrees Fahrenheit and 29 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively.
Post-Accident Examination
The aircraft had been rebuilt, and the engine was run at the conclusion of the rebuild project on January 14, 1989. During this run, the engine operated normally. Subsequent examination found no evidence of a mechanical cause for the loss of power.