What happened
During the takeoff roll, the pilot noted an approximate 15% reduction in engine power. Because the aircraft had already reached the go/no-go point, the pilot determined there was sufficient airspeed to proceed with the takeoff. Shortly after the aircraft turned left from the runway heading, the engine experienced a surge.
In response to the engine issues, the pilot began a partial dump of the 200 gallon chemical load. However, the aircraft was unable to maintain a positive rate of climb. The pilot then proceeded to dump the remaining portion of the chemical load. During this process, the main landing gear struck furrows in a plowed field, causing the gear to collapse and the aircraft to slide to a stop. At the time of the event, the density altitude was approximately 5,400 feet.
The investigation
An examination of the engine was conducted following the accident; however, investigators found no specific reason for the initial partial loss of power.