N8983T

On May 24, 1995, at 1610 central daylight time, a Cessna 182C, N8983T, nosed over during a forced landing near Castleberry, Alabama. The private pilot had minor injuries, and the aircraft was substantially damaged. The aircraft was operated under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91 by the pilot. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the time, and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight to Foley, Alabama. The flight originated at Auburn, Alabama, at 1500.

The pilot reported a rough running engine during a descent from 8,500 feet to 4,500 feet mean sea level. The engine then lost power, and altitude could not be maintained. He applied carburetor heat, and checked the magnetos. A forced landing was performed on a farm field. The aircraft nosed over on rough terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.

An inspection of the engine was conducted. The engine rotated freely when the propeller was rotated by hand. The engine internal continuity was confirmed. The top spark plugs were removed and there was evidence of soft, black soot on the electrodes of the spark plugs, which could be rubbed off with the fingers. The starter was energized and the engine started successfully. A run to 2,600 RPM was achieved with smooth operation on all cylinders. The engine was run for approximately ten minutes and was then shut down.

According to an icing probability chart, the aircraft was operating in an area favorable to the formation of serious icing at glide power.

The Cessna 182 Pilot Operator's Handbook states that, during a descent or let down, to "apply sufficient carburetor heat to prevent icing, if icing conditions exist".