Incident Summary
A pilot conducted a pre-takeoff run-up at the west end of the airstrip. After warming up the engine, the pilot advanced the throttle to 1,700 rpm and performed a magneto check, noting a 100 rpm drop on each magneto. The pilot then pulled the carburetor heat control, and the engine subsequently died.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported pushing in the carburetor heat control, adjusting the throttle, and attempting to restart the engine two or three times. During these attempts, the pilot detected the smell of smoke, looked outside, and observed smoke coming from the aircraft. Exiting the airplane, the pilot saw flames inside the bottom of the engine compartment.
Aircraft Damage
The fire that ensued destroyed the airplane.
Postaccident Inspection
Following the accident, an inspection revealed two anomalies. First, the carburetor float level was found to be higher than the specified level. Second, the carburetor hose was stiff and was marked as having been manufactured in the first quarter of 1977.