Incident Summary
During takeoff, the pilot reported an approximate 15% reduction in power. At that point, the aircraft had reached the go/no-go point, and the pilot judged that sufficient airspeed existed to continue the takeoff. Shortly after turning left from the runway heading, the engine surged.
Response and Outcome
In response to the surge, the pilot initiated a partial dump of the 200-gallon chemical load. Despite this, the aircraft was unable to achieve a positive climb rate. The pilot then began dumping the remainder of the chemical load. During this process, the main landing gear contacted furrows of a plowed field and subsequently collapsed. The aircraft slid to a stop.
Environmental Conditions
The density altitude at the time was approximately 5,400 feet.
Post-Incident Examination
During examination of the engine, no reason was found for the partial loss of power.