Accident Sequence
An aircraft made a forced landing after the engine lost power during the takeoff climb. Prior to takeoff, the pilot had leaned the mixture. The checklist for the aircraft calls for a full rich mixture. When the pilot reduced power after takeoff, the engine began detonating and subsequently lost power. During the emergency landing, the landing gear collapsed.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the engine after the accident revealed evidence of detonation and abnormal heat. A test run of the engine was conducted, using conditions to simulate the accident takeoff. The results of the test run were the same as during the accident, indicating engine detonation and power loss under those conditions.
Pilot Interview
The pilot was queried about the use of the mixture control. He repeated his methods, stating that they were the way he was taught by a certified flight instructor (CFI). The CFI was not found for comment. The pilot never mentioned that the checklist calls for a full rich mixture for the turbocharged engine. The density altitude at the time of the accident was about 9,300 feet.