Incident Overview
The airplane experienced a loss of engine power during the takeoff initial climb, resulting in an off-airport forced landing. The pilot reported that the engine start and run-up were normal, and he departed at 65 mph. The airplane climbed to an altitude between 300 and 400 feet. He then pulled the propeller control back for noise abatement.
Pilot Actions
Noticing low airspeed, the pilot lowered the nose and checked the trim, throttle, mixture, and magneto switch position. He pushed the propeller control full forward, but the airplane continued to not climb. He maintained altitude, airspeed, and heading, aiming to clear power lines and buildings at the departure end of the runway. He hoped to gain enough airspeed and lift to reach alfalfa fields or make a slow turn back to the airport.
Engine Performance Deterioration
The engine failed to generate sufficient power to sustain flight, and the situation worsened as time passed. With diminishing altitude and airspeed, the pilot became concerned about a possible stall/spin. He slowly banked toward a field and pushed the nose over to maintain airspeed. The airplane landed in terrain approximately 300 yards from the airport.
Damage and Examination
The landing gear separated, and the lower wings sustained substantial damage. The FAA inspector who supervised the post-accident wreckage examination reported a patch around the air intake duct. Lifting the patch partially off, he observed that the duct's inner support wire had collapsed, and the duct itself collapsed inward. The inspector opined that this condition restricted airflow and enriched the fuel mixture, which resulted in the loss of engine power.