Accident Overview
The aircraft impacted terrain while returning to Runway 29 at M. Graham Clark Airport, Point Lookout, Missouri, after experiencing a partial loss of engine power.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that a mechanic had inspected the mixture control and replaced the outer mixture control clamps. According to the pilot, the mechanic recommended leaving the mixture control full rich until a mechanic could troubleshoot the reason the control linkage allowed the mixture to go over center. The pilot stated that no paperwork was generated for the clamp replacement and that the mechanic did not want to charge for the work.
Mechanic Statement
The mechanic stated that he replaced a cable housing clamp and rigged the mixture control to the full rich stop. He also told the pilot that the control was still not rigged correctly and would take a week to troubleshoot and repair. The mechanic further reported that he showed the discrepancy to the pilot and told him he could do whatever he wanted to do.
Aircraft Inspection
Post-accident inspection revealed fuel present in both fuel tanks. Both magnetos were tested and no anomalies were noted. Inspection of the mixture control determined that it was not travelling to the idle cut-off stop and that the full rich stop pin was not in place.