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Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Test Flight After Overhaul (N4GB)

Eden, GA, US

On March 18, 2004, a Cessna 182K (registration N4GB) was involved in an aviation accident near Eden, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The mixture control cable was disconnected from the carburetor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot conducting a test flight after an engine overhaul experienced a power loss shortly after takeoff. The airplane collided with trees and the runway before flipping inverted. Examination revealed the mixture control cable was disconnected.

Accident Overview

A pilot was performing a test flight following the installation of an overhauled engine. During the installation, all fuel was drained from the airplane and approximately 38 gallons of 100LL fuel were added. After about 20 minutes of ground runs with no issues, the pilot restarted the engine, conducted a standard run-up, taxied to the runway, and took off at 1429.

Loss of Power

Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to return to the airport. While maneuvering for a forced landing, the airplane struck the tops of trees, contacted the runway, and flipped inverted.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the engine revealed that the mixture control cable was disconnected from the carburetor. When the cable was reconnected, the engine ran without any discrepancies.

Probable cause

The mixture control cable was disconnected from the carburetor.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Mar 2004 Cessna 182K accident near Eden, GA?

A pilot conducting a test flight after an engine overhaul experienced a power loss shortly after takeoff. The airplane collided with trees and the runway before flipping inverted. Examination revealed the mixture control cable was disconnected.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Mar 2004 involved a Cessna 182K, registration N4GB, at Eden, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The mixture control cable was disconnected from the carburetor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040323X00355. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.