Incident Summary
A pilot was overflying a campsite in search of specific campers when the aircraft experienced an engine anomaly. According to the pilot, the power reduction was inconsistent with the throttle movement after he retarded the throttle to slow the aircraft. When he advanced the throttle, the engine did not respond.
Pilot Report
The pilot established a glide speed and began checking the positions of the fuel selector, carburetor heat, and mixture control. During this process, the left wing struck a tree. The impact caused the wing to separate, and the airplane descended to the ground.
Investigation Findings
An operational test of the engine was conducted as part of the investigation. The engine was operated satisfactorily but was limited to 1100 RPM due to damage to the engine mount.