Rangemaster (Navion)
Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 41.2; Flight Crew Total 21500; Flight Crew Type 514.8
Distraction; Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Deviation - Track / Heading All Types
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Aircraft Equipment Problem Dissipated; Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem; Flight Crew Inflight Shutdown
Aircraft; Human Factors
During a VFR arrival the engine failed to power up following a quick descent from 11;500. Engine successfully restarted and subsequent landing uneventful. Engine was run-up on the ramp and magnetos checked before shutdown. All normal. Engine fully inspected and idle adjusted from 550 RPM to 850 RPM by licensed mechanic.Pilot probably lost 2 to 3 seconds in both surprise and recognition when advancing the throttle on final approach. Pilot turned towards flatter terrain and declared a 'Mayday' with Tower. A Fuel; Mixture; Switches (F-M-S) check and restart followed. Tower notified and later thanked by telephone for simply acknowledging the Mayday call and not distracting the situation.
After a quick decent from 11;500 ft. in a Navion Rangemaster; the engine failed to power up. The engine restarted successfully after performing a Fuel; Mixture; Switches check.