On September 10, 1995, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N1474N) was involved in an aviation accident near Mooresville, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper use of the carburetor heat resulting in the formation of carburetor ice and subsequent loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported an engine power decrease in cruise, applied carburetor heat briefly, then executed an intentional stall into trees. Weather was favorable for carburetor ice; no weather briefing was obtained.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that engine power decreased smoothly during cruise flight at a power setting of 2100 RPM. The carburetor heat was applied for approximately one minute and then removed. The pilot subsequently slowed the airplane and executed an intentional stall into the trees.
Pilot Actions
According to the pilot, the weather at the time of the accident was favorable for the formation of carburetor ice. The pilot also stated that he did not receive a weather briefing prior to the flight.
Post-Accident Findings
Following the accident, the pilot stated a belief that carburetor ice had formed, citing that during the engine teardown there was a lot of moisture present in the carburetor.
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