On April 30, 1990, a Grumman AA-5 (registration N7127L) operated by Gower Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Port Orchard, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The wrong type of carburetor was installed on the engine, and the carburetor float would 'hang up' intermittently. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
After a low approach to check the runway, a pilot initiated a go-around at 100-200 feet when the engine lost power. An emergency landing in a logged-out area resulted in damage. Investigation found an incorrect carburetor with a hanging float.
Incident
Following arrival, the pilot decided to perform a low approach over the airport to inspect the runway. As the go-around was initiated at an altitude of approximately 100 to 200 feet above ground level, the engine began running roughly and failed to produce sufficient power to sustain flight. The pilot executed an emergency landing on a logged-out area. During the landing, the aircraft struck small trees and stumps, resulting in damage.
Investigation
An investigation revealed that the wrong type of carburetor had been installed on the engine. Additionally, the carburetor float was found to intermittently 'hang up,' which likely contributed to the power loss.
Probable cause
The wrong type of carburetor was installed on the engine, and the carburetor float would 'hang up' intermittently.