Phantom Aeronautics X-1 N111JC accident near Van Wert, Ohio

Probable cause

A loss of engine power due to the separation of the carburetor from the intake socket resulting from the improper installation of the intake silencer.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that the engine lost power during cruise flight. While troubleshooting, he noticed that the forward carburetor of the dual-carburetor-equipped engine had separated from the intake socket. He subsequently performed a forced landing to a field, during which the left wing spar was substantially damaged.

A postaccident examination revealed that the forward intake socket did not conform to an exemplar socket provided by the engine manufacturer. In addition, the intake silencer was not supported except by the carburetors. Maintenance records indicated that the intake silencer was installed before the current owner purchased the airplane. A daily inspection checklist provided by the engine manufacturer included inspection of the sockets and silencer.

The in-flight separation of the forward carburetor from the intake socket was likely the result of the improper intake silencer installation, which lacked support other than the forward and aft carburetor intake sockets.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN19LA303 for the full record.