Accident Overview
During the initial climb after takeoff, the airplane was at a gross weight approximately 50 pounds over the maximum limit. The airplane would neither climb nor accelerate. After turning crosswind at 250 feet above ground level and half a mile beyond the departure end of the runway, the engine revolutions per minute (RPM) began to "creep down." The pilot was unable to restore engine RPM, necessitating a forced landing in a pasture. During the landing, the airplane collided with a ditch and a fence, nosed over, and caught fire.
Engine Examination Findings
A subsequent examination of the engine revealed several issues that degraded the power available. The spark plugs were fouled, and the magneto impulse coupling was weak. Additionally, rust and evidence of detonation were present in the cylinders and on the piston domes. These conditions collectively reduced engine performance, contributing to the power loss experienced during the flight.