Accident Overview
An aircraft experienced an engine power loss during the takeoff climb at approximately 300 feet above ground level, prompting the pilot to attempt a return to the airport. The aircraft subsequently crash landed in a swamp.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that the aircraft was trailing black smoke as it departed. Additionally, they observed the pilot having trouble starting the engine prior to departure and saw him working on the engine.
Maintenance History
During the most recent annual inspection, a logbook entry recommended that cylinder #1 be rechecked after 10 hours of operation due to a suspected broken ring and a compression difference exceeding 10 pounds compared to the other cylinders. This recommendation was not followed, and the aircraft had accumulated approximately 250 flight hours since that inspection.
Pilot Awareness and Post-Accident Findings
The pilot stated that he was aware of an oil leak because oil had been pooling in the cowling. Following the accident, the spark plugs were examined; the plug from cylinder #2 was found to be heavily sooted. The pilot intended to have the engine disassembled for further examination after the accident, but this was not carried out.