N4134X

On July 27, 1993, at approximately 0830 central daylight time, an Aero Commander 100, N4134X, sustained substantial damage near Vidor, Texas, following a forced landing due to a loss of engine power. The commercial pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the pipeline patrol flight.

During telephone interviews, conducted by the investigator in charge with the pilot and operator, the following information was revealed. The flight departed Lake Charles, Louisiana, and was en route with a final destination of Beaumont, Texas. During cruise flight at approximately 500 feet above the ground, there was a total loss of engine power. A forced landing was made to a wet field. During the landing roll, the nose wheel hit a ditch and the airplane nosed over, coming to rest up right.

Examination of the airplane by the Federal Aviation Administration inspectors revealed that the throttle mixture control cable was separated at the carburetor, the retainer for the cable was missing, and the control arm was in the shutoff position.

According to the maintenance records, which were reviewed by the investigator in charge, an overhauled carburetor was installed on May 5, 1993. On July 13, 1993, the carburetor heat control cable had been adjusted.

The airplane was released to the owner's representative following the investigation.