Introduction
A pilot, accompanied by his son, was preparing for a local flight in an airplane he had purchased earlier that day. All ground checks were reported as normal before departure.
Accident Sequence
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot observed a decrease in engine RPM. In response, he switched fuel tanks and checked the magnetos, carburetor heat, and mixture controls. With trees ahead, the pilot turned the airplane and executed a forced landing in an adjacent field. The airplane came to a stop and was subsequently consumed by fire.
Investigation Findings
A teardown inspection of the engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure. The pilot reported that he had sufficient fuel for the intended flight. However, the magnetos, carburetor, and engine-driven fuel pump were destroyed by the fire. The fire damage also prevented any testing of the aircraft's fuel system.
Conclusion
The reason for the engine power loss could not be determined due to the extensive fire damage and lack of evidence of pre-impact failure.