Amateur-built THORP T-18 N86TJ accident near Fredericksburg, Texas

Probable cause

The malfunction of the throttle clamp, which resulted in the pilot's inability to control the engine's power setting.

NTSB analysis

According to the pilot, he reduced engine power to slow the airplane for landing while on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern. He then attempted to increase power and the engine did not respond. The pilot maneuvered the airplane immediately toward the runway and it floated during the landing. When the airplane touched down, there was insufficient distance remaining to stop on the runway. The airplane departed the end of the runway and the pilot intentionally ground-looped the airplane to stay on the airport property, causing substantial damage to both wings. A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the clamp securing the throttle controller end was allowing the cable to slip freely.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11CA030 for the full record.