Accident
An aerial application airplane was substantially damaged when it struck a tree and terrain during the initial climb after takeoff. The pilot, in an accident report, described the sequence of events leading to the impact.
According to the pilot's statement, upon powering up the engine, it initially seemed to run roughly but quickly smoothed out. The pilot then checked the manifold pressure, which read 36 inches, normal for that aircraft, and concluded the engine was producing adequate power. The takeoff roll proceeded as expected, with rotation and liftoff at the usual point. However, the airplane then appeared to settle back to the runway, with the tail wheel hitting first, followed by the main gear. After this bounce, the aircraft became airborne again, and the pilot believed it would carry the load. There was no time to abort. Just after crossing the departure end of the runway, the airplane lost altitude, and the left wing struck a tree, tearing off the left aileron. The aircraft then impacted the ground with the left wing and engine first.
Investigation
An on-scene examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact anomalies. The pilot's safety recommendation noted that if an engine analyzer had been available to indicate a cylinder not operating up to standard, the takeoff would not have been attempted. The pilot also stated that future flights in agricultural aircraft would involve keeping the left hand on the dump lever during takeoff.