Background
The pilot in command departed on a cross-country flight with an inoperative wet compass. During the flight, he set his directional gyro 90 degrees off, leading to disorientation in deteriorating weather conditions.
Landing and Takeoff
To determine his location, the pilot elected to land in a short, soft, wet sod field. After landing, he took off again when weather was estimated at 800 feet overcast with 2 miles visibility in rain.
Accident Sequence
During the initial takeoff climb, while in controlled flight, the airplane impacted trees at the departure end of the field.
Investigation Findings
The investigation noted that the pilot knowingly departed with an inoperative wet compass, set his directional gyro 90 degrees off in flight, became disoriented in deteriorating weather, and subsequently made decisions that led to the tree impact during a takeoff climb from a short, soft, wet field in low ceiling and visibility conditions.