Incident Overview
A pilot reported that prior to takeoff, they leaned the mixture. The density altitude at the time was approximately 9,300 feet. Shortly after becoming airborne, the engine began to sputter. In response, the pilot adjusted the mixture to the full rich position. However, the engine subsequently lost power, necessitating a forced landing. The aircraft touched down on rough, desert terrain.
Aircraft Operator's Manual Guidance
According to the operator's manual for the aircraft involved, takeoff should be conducted with the mixture set to full rich, irrespective of altitude. The manual explains that the engine-driven altitude compensating fuel pump will automatically lean the engine mixture, making manual leaning unnecessary during takeoff.
Sequence of Events
The pilot stated that the mixture was leaned prior to departure. Following takeoff, the engine sputtered. The pilot then increased the mixture to full rich. Despite this corrective action, the engine lost power completely. The forced landing was executed on uneven desert ground.