Pilot Actions During Power Loss
According to the pilot, during initial full throttle application, the aircraft developed 2450 RPM. At approximately 200 feet of altitude, the pilot noticed a loss of RPM to 2050. He immediately rechecked the throttle and mixture controls, magneto switch, fuel pump, and master switch for proper positions. The pilot stated that at this point the RPM had fallen to 1500, and he prepared for an emergency landing in a cornfield to his left. During the descent, he continued to manipulate the throttle and mixture controls but did not switch fuel tanks.
Emergency Landing and Wreckage Inspection
The pilot reported that once the aircraft's right wing touched the top of the corn, he reduced throttle and flared the aircraft. Inspection of the wreckage revealed very low fuel in the left tank, with the fuel selector positioned to the left tank. The spark plugs were also worn and lead fouled.