Departure and Loss of Contact
The aircraft departed under visual flight rules and did not receive air traffic services. It was scheduled to arrive at an airport 9 nautical miles from its departure point but never arrived.
Search and Wreckage Location
After approximately two hours of searching, the wreckage was located off the north end of the destination airport’s runway 17/35. The pilot, who was seriously injured, was found inside the wreckage.
Ground Scars and Impact
Ground scars observed in the area were consistent with the aircraft impacting short of the runway during a landing attempt to the south.
Fuel System Examination
Local police who responded to the scene noted fuel in both of the aircraft’s fuel tanks, the carburetor heat was off, and the fuel selector was in the OFF position. A local mechanic reported finding about 1/2 teaspoon of fuel in the carburetor float bowl after the accident.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the accident occurred about 10 minutes after departure and that he believed the accident was due to “engine failure due to unknown causes.” He could not remember the flight, the engine problems prompting him to prepare for an emergency landing, or the crash.
Engine Examination
A follow-up engine examination disclosed propeller damage consistent with low or no power at impact. However, the examination found no mechanical reason for the engine to stop running.
Carburetor Findings
Further examination of the aircraft’s carburetor revealed a float valve retractor clip laying in the bottom of the float bowl chamber. This clip was an improper type for the installed float.
Weather Conditions
The temperature and dewpoint combination reported at the airport near the time of the accident posed a hazard of “serious [carburetor] icing at glide power,” according to FAA data.