Accident Overview
A pilot departed Albuquerque, New Mexico, on a flight to Redlands, California, with a planned stop in Prescott, Arizona. During the initial climb, as the airplane reached 350 feet above ground level, the pilot reduced the propeller control to a climb power setting. Shortly thereafter, the tachometer needle began fluctuating. The pilot responded by returning the propeller control to the takeoff power setting.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
Despite the adjustment, engine RPM began to decay, making sustained flight impossible. The pilot executed a forced landing onto a rough field. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed over.
Postaccident Findings
A postaccident inspection revealed oil streaking along the entire length of the airplane. The source of the oil leak was identified as a loose oil filter. According to the engine logbook, the owner-pilot had changed the engine oil and filter two days prior to the accident.
Probable Cause
Not explicitly stated in the source.
Additional Details
No further information about the aircraft type, registration, operator, occupants, injuries, or damage was provided in the source.