Event
On June 17, 2023, about 0845 central daylight time, a Cessna 172B, registration N7509X, was substantially damaged during a forced landing at San Angelo Regional Airport (SJT), San Angelo, Texas. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
The pilot reported that after departure from runway 36 the engine began running rough and a partial loss of power occurred. The pilot flew a forced landing to runway 9, during which the engine continued to run rough. The airplane touched down hard and departed the side of the runway, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing.
Postaccident Examination
Postaccident examination of the carburetor revealed fuel stains around the outside of the fuel bowl. Five of the six bolts holding the throttle body to the bowl were found finger-tight. The float setting was set overly rich and wear was observed on the tip of the float needle.
Maintenance History
The last annual inspection was completed on the engine on January 1, 2023. Investigators did not determine the last time maintenance was specifically performed on the carburetor. The airplane had flown about 13 hours since the last annual inspection was completed on the airplane.