Flight and Initial Power Loss
According to the pilot, after departure he climbed to 2,000 feet MSL. He then adjusted the throttle to 2,500 RPM and leaned the mixture for cruise flight. Shortly after, the engine slowed to 2,000 RPM.
Pilot Actions
In response, the pilot selected the opposite fuel tank, moved the mixture to full rich, and applied full throttle. He did not apply carburetor heat. Despite these actions, the RPM did not increase, and the aircraft continued to descend.
Forced Landing
Realizing the power loss was sustained, the pilot decided to land. As he approached an open field he had selected for landing, the landing gear struck a tree. The aircraft descended lower, and the left wing then struck a tree.
Impact
The aircraft spun to the ground, impacting a corn field while moving rearward.