Flight and Incident
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reported that the airplane's performance was "somewhat sluggish and was slow to accelerate up to 100 mph." Approximately five miles from the airport at 400 feet above ground level, the engine experienced a "catastrophic loss of power." The pilot noted that returning to the airport was not possible due to the developing descent rate and that options for a forced landing site were limited by the terrain. A small hay field was selected, but the aircraft was unable to stop before reaching the tree line at the edge of the field, impacting the trees and sustaining substantial damage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported having engine problems the day before the accident flight. He returned to the departure airport and consulted a mechanic. A loose spark plug lead was secured and a non-firing spark plug was replaced. According to the mechanic's statement, the airplane was still not developing rated static RPM and was not within tolerances on the magneto checks. The mechanic determined that the left magneto needed to be replaced or repaired. However, the pilot's statement indicated that the engine performance was within specifications and that the mechanic said replacement of the left magneto was optional.
Engine Examination
A post-accident engine examination conducted by an FAA inspector on scene noted that the left magneto drive gear had malfunctioned, producing an erratic spark distribution and resulting in a significant loss of engine performance.
Maintenance History
No logbook entry was made for the work performed on the engine the day before the accident flight.
Occupancy
The accident flight was conducted with a total of five occupants on board: two adults and three children. This exceeded the number of approved seats and seat belts installed in the aircraft.