On August 21, 1994, a Piper PA-25 (registration N8819L) was involved in an aviation accident near Columbia, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the carburetor due to a metal fragment breaking loose from its weld and jamming the mechanism. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced complete engine power loss during a swath run, resulting in a forced landing and substantial aircraft damage caused by internal carburetor failure.
What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft engine ceased producing power while conducting a swath run. Following the loss of thrust, he executed a forced landing in an adjacent field. The aircraft nosed over during the rollout phase of the landing, which resulted in substantial damage to the airframe.
The investigation
A mechanical examination of the aircraft was conducted to determine the cause of the power failure. Inspectors discovered that a piece of metal had broken loose from its weld inside the carburetor. This debris became lodged within the component, leading to a complete failure of the carburetor.
Probable cause
The failure of the carburetor due to a metal fragment breaking loose from its weld and jamming the mechanism.
