Departure
The airplane departed at approximately 1130. The outside air temperature at 1145 was 39 degrees Fahrenheit, while at 0747 it had been 28 degrees Fahrenheit. The pilot did not preheat the engine before starting, and encountered difficulty starting it. The engine started on the third attempt. After starting, the pilot taxied to the runway, conducted a rolling run-up, and departed. Witnesses reported that five minutes or less elapsed from the time of engine start-up to takeoff.
Engine Failure
About 300 feet above ground level, the engine lost partial power. With some power remaining, the pilot attempted a left turn back toward the airport. However, the engine continued to lose power.
Forced Landing
The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing to a road. During the landing, the airplane struck a vehicle and a berm before coming to rest.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the engine and a successful test run did not reveal any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions. Review of the airplane owner's manual revealed information about the possibility of a rough engine in cold weather, and the recommendation to lengthen warm-up and run-up times.