Event Sequence
Shortly after leveling at 2,500 feet following takeoff, the pilot leaned the mixture for cruise. The engine began running unusually rough. The pilot enriched the mixture, but the roughness continued. He then switched to one magneto, and the engine stopped producing power. When set to the other magneto, the engine ran, but remained rough.
Emergency Landing
With insufficient power to return to the departure airport, which was 8 nautical miles away, the pilot made an emergency landing in a wooded area.
Post-Crash Conditions
Post-crash fire damage precluded functional testing of the fuel and ignition systems.