Event
During the takeoff climb, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power as it passed through approximately 150 feet above ground level. The pilot attempted to maneuver back to the airport, but was unable to clear approximately 60-foot trees located near the departure end of the runway. The aircraft collided with the trees.
Damage
Examination of the aircraft after the accident revealed extensive damage. The nose, engine, landing gear, wings, instrument panel, and cockpit all sustained significant structural damage consistent with a high-energy impact with trees and terrain.
Investigation
Investigators examined the aircraft's systems and components. The mixture control cable was found broken near the mixture control arm of the carburetor; however, impact damage was present in that area. A microscopic examination of the fracture surface indicated that it was typical of a tensile overload of a ductile material. Fuel quantity was sufficient for the flight, and no fuel contamination was detected. Both magnetos produced a spark, and compression was present in all cylinders.
Findings
The engine lost power during the initial climb. The pilot's attempt to return to the airport was unsuccessful due to insufficient altitude to clear trees. The broken mixture control cable may have been related to the power loss, but impact damage precluded a definitive determination. No other mechanical anomalies were found that could explain the power loss.