Incident Overview
During climb after takeoff, the engine lost power and the rpm dropped to about 2,100. The flight instructor, who was with a student, took control and initiated a left turn back toward the airport. When he realized he could not make the airport, he landed in trees.
Witness Observations
A witness stated that the engine did not sound like it was producing full power from the beginning of the takeoff roll. The airplane used approximately two-thirds of the 4,158-foot runway during the takeoff roll. After liftoff, the airplane climbed slowly and the pilot initiated a left turn with a nose-high attitude. The airplane stalled, the left wing dropped, and the aircraft descended and crashed into trees. The witness heard the engine continue to run until impact.
Postcrash Examination
Postcrash examination of the engine showed the spark plugs were fouled with carbon and lead deposits, and the propeller blades were bent forward. The engine was started and operated roughly to 1,700 rpm. After cleaning the spark plugs and replacing the bent propeller, the engine was started and operated to 2,200 rpm, achieving full static rpm.