Pullman, WA, USA
N4100Z
PIPER PA-18-150
The pilot was maneuvering the airplane at a low altitude over open, snow-covered terrain, and noticed that the engine was beginning to lose power and running roughly. The airplane was starting to lose altitude and in response, he applied the carburetor heat and added full engine power. Just as the engine started to regain power, the main landing gear broke through the crusty top layer of the snow, slowing the airplane. The propeller contacted the snow and the pilot decreased the engine power and attempted to transition to a landing. The airplane nosed over inverted, resulting in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and both left wing lift struts. According to the pilot, with the exception of the accumulation of carburetor ice, there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot, who was chasing coyotes at low level over open snow-covered terrain, noticed that the airplane's engine was beginning to lose power and run rough, and that the airplane was starting to lose altitude. He therefore applied carburetor heat and full power, but just as the engine started to regain power, the airplane's main wheels broke through the crusty top layer of the snow. The airplane then began to slow, and when its propeller contacted the snow, the pilot pulled the power back and attempted to transition to a landing. Although the pilot had the control stick all the way back, the airplane nosed over onto its back, resulting in damage to the vertical stabilizer and the bending of both left wing lift struts. According to the pilot, except for the accumulation of carburetor ice, there were no problems with the engine.
The pilot's delayed application of carburetor heat while maneuvering, which resulted in a partial loss of engine power.
Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database
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