On July 25, 1989, a Grumman G-164A (registration N48426) operated by RH & Rh, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Harviell, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INABILITY TO AVOID UNSUITABLE TERRAIN DURING THE LANDING ROLL AFTER A FORCED LANDING. THE FORCED LANDING WAS MADE NECESSARY BY A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER CAUSED BY A FOREIGN OBJECT RESTRICTING THE FUEL SYSTEM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After liftoff, the aircraft experienced a partial loss of engine power. A forced landing was performed, but the aircraft touched down 300 feet from the runway end, hit a ditch, and nosed over. Investigators found melted solder in the carburetor restricting fuel flow.
Accident Sequence
Shortly after liftoff, the aircraft suffered a partial loss of engine power, prompting the pilot to execute a forced landing. During the landing, the aircraft touched down approximately 300 feet from the departure end of the runway. It subsequently collided with a ditch and nosed over.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination of the engine revealed several small melted balls of solder inside the carburetor. These solder balls were restricting the fuel flow, which likely caused the partial loss of power. The investigation also determined that the engine had previously experienced a carburetor intake fire, which may have led to the melting of the solder.