On November 15, 1993, a Cessna 172N (registration N4829E) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Collins, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: POWER LOSS DUE TO THROTTLE LINKAGE DISCONNECT. FACTORS WERE MISSING COTTER KEY, IMPROPER MAINTENANCE, AND THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING. 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.
A student pilot performed a forced landing after experiencing total power loss shortly after takeoff. Examination revealed a missing cotter pin and broken throttle opening spring, with recent maintenance on the throttle shaft.
Overview
A student pilot conducted a forced landing after a total power loss occurred shortly after takeoff. The incident involved an aircraft whose identity and registration were not specified in the available records.
Engine Examination
Post-incident examination of the engine disclosed that the cotter pin intended to fit into the locking nut on the throttle lever was missing. Additionally, the serrated surfaces of the throttle lever were not meshed and were riding on top of each other. The throttle valve was found closed because the throttle opening spring, designed to fully open the throttle in the event of throttle lever or cable separation, was broken.
Maintenance History
Three days prior to the incident, the throttle shaft had been removed and inspected for wear. The mechanic who performed the work stated that he was "almost sure" he inserted the cotter pin when he reinstalled the carburetor. The flight in which the power loss occurred was the first flight following that maintenance.
What happened in the 15 Nov 1993 Cessna 172N accident near Fort Collins, CO?
A student pilot performed a forced landing after experiencing total power loss shortly after takeoff. Examination revealed a missing cotter pin and broken throttle opening spring, with recent maintenance on the throttle shaft.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Nov 1993 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N4829E, at Fort Collins, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
POWER LOSS DUE TO THROTTLE LINKAGE DISCONNECT. FACTORS WERE MISSING COTTER KEY, IMPROPER MAINTENANCE, AND THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING.
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