Accident Overview
A pilot landed on a 3000-foot grass runway, believing it was a 4000-foot runway located about 5 miles to the west. Witnesses advised the pilot not to take off in the 95-degree temperature. Despite the warning, the pilot decided to take off, using all available runway length.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported leaning the mixture and using 1/4 flaps for takeoff. While climbing over a row of trees at the end of the runway, the pilot believed there was a slight power loss. The aircraft then settled into a second row of trees, approximately 60 to 70 feet tall, and crashed.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported that the engine was providing full power until impact. Examination revealed the engine tachometer read 150 RPM high, but no preimpact part failure or malfunction of the engine was found.
Operational Considerations
The flight manual indicated that the engine should not have been leaned for takeoff below 5000 feet. Performance charts showed that the aircraft would have needed 2025 feet to clear a 50-foot obstacle.