Accident Sequence
The pilot of the homebuilt airplane reduced power on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern to initiate a low approach to the runway. While on final approach, the pilot attempted to add power to maintain the desired glide path. When the throttle lever was pushed forward, there was no response from the engine. Remedial actions by the pilot failed to restore engine control.
During the subsequent forced landing to a field, the engine continued to run at the reduced power setting. On short final to the field, the pilot noticed a dead tree with no foliage in the path but determined that altitude and airspeed were too low to maneuver around it. The airplane struck the tree, contacted the ground, spun around, and came to rest facing opposite the direction of travel.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination of the throttle control revealed a separation of the throttle cable outer sheath from the inner throttle cable. When forward movement was applied to the throttle control, the inner cable bowed and did not transfer forward motion to the throttle arm, preventing the engine from increasing power.