Incident Details
A pilot reported that shortly after takeoff while towing a glider, the engine lost power at approximately 350 feet above ground level. The pilot released the tow rope, and the glider successfully returned to the airport. The pilot then attempted a forced landing in a rough, uneven field. During the landing roll, the airplane sustained substantial damage.
Post-Accident Examination
Shortly after the accident, a local mechanic started the engine and conducted a run-up, including checking the carburetor heat control. The test run was completed with no mechanical failures or malfunctions noted. The following day, another individual flew the airplane out of the field and returned it to the airport.
The investigation did not identify any specific mechanical cause for the power loss.