Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft produced loud rhythmic noises. It reached the end of the runway at a low altitude in an initial climb when the engine sounds decreased. The landing gear was extended, and the aircraft entered a steep turn back toward the airport. During the turn, the nose dropped, and the aircraft descended nose-down, impacting the ground and igniting in flames.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed a partially separated propeller cylinder hub balance ring. Further examination of the propeller showed that one cylinder mounting screw was missing and four mounting screws contained fatigue cracking.
Surrounding Area
There was a cleared area off the end of the takeoff runway and a large, level pasture beyond the cleared area.