Engine Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing and Tree Strike (N6322W)

Accident Overview

The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, the engine was losing power as the airplane was not accelerating. The engine instruments and fuel selector all appeared normal. The control tower reported a puff of black smoke coming from the airplane.

Pilot Actions

The pilot selected a field to make a forced landing. He stated that he was not able to lower the flaps until the airplane cleared powerlines that lined the field's boundary. Airspeed carried the airplane to the center of the field, so the pilot decided to hit a hedge row of trees in order to slow the airplane down. The right wing struck a tree and the airplane impacted the ground.

Postaccident Findings

Postaccident examination revealed the spark plugs and valves were coated with black soot. Several spark plugs were oil soaked. The air conditioning controls were found in the 'on' position with the temperature selector on maximum cold. The fuel pump position could not be determined because the switches were removed prior to the FAA's arrival on site. No other anomalies were noted.